Performance of the Versatile Array of Neutron Detectors at Low Energy (VANDLE)

DOE PAGES

Peters, W. A.; Ilyushkin, S.; Madurga, M.; ...

2016-08-26

The Versatile Array of Neutron Detectors at Low Energy (VANDLE) is a new, highly efficient plastic-scintillator array constructed for decay and transfer reaction experimental setups that require neutron detection. The versatile and modular design allows for customizable experimental setups including beta-delayed neutron spectroscopy and (d,n) transfer reactions in normal and inverse kinematics. The neutron energy and prompt-photon discrimination is determined through the time of flight technique. Fully digital data acquisition electronics and integrated triggering logic enables some VANDLE modules to achieve an intrinsic efficiency over 70% for 300-keV neutrons, measured through two different methods. A custom Geant4 simulation models aspectsmore » of the detector array and the experimental setups to determine efficiency and detector response. Lastly, a low detection threshold, due to the trigger logic and digitizing data acquisition, allowed us to measure the light-yield response curve from elastically scattered carbon nuclei inside the scintillating plastic from incident neutrons with kinetic energies below 2 MeV.« less

Artificial cochlea and acoustic black hole travelling waves observation: Model and experimental results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Foucaud, Simon; Michon, Guilhem; Gourinat, Yves; Pelat, Adrien; Gautier, François

2014-07-01

An inhomogeneous fluid structure waveguide reproducing passive behaviour of the inner ear is modelled with the help of the Wentzel-Kramers-Brillouin method. A physical setup is designed and built. Experimental results are compared with a good correlation to theoretical ones. The experimental setup is a varying width plate immersed in fluid and terminated with an acoustic black hole. The varying width plate provides a spatial repartition of the vibration depending on the excitation frequency. The acoustic black hole is made by decreasing the plate's thickness with a quadratic profile and by covering this region with a thin film of viscoelastic material. Such a termination attenuates the flexural wave reflection at the end of the waveguide, turning standing waves into travelling waves.

Experimental setup for investigation of nanoclusters at cryogenic temperatures by electron spin resonance and optical spectroscopies

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mao, S., E-mail: maoshunghost@tamu.edu; Meraki, A.; McColgan, P. T.

2014-07-15

We present the design and performance of an experimental setup for simultaneous electron spin resonance (ESR) and optical studies of nanoclusters with stabilized free radicals at cryogenic temperatures. A gas mixture of impurities and helium after passing through a RF discharge for dissociation of molecules is directed onto the surface of superfluid helium to form the nanoclusters of impurities. A specially designed ESR cavity operated in the TE{sub 011} mode allows optical access to the sample. The cavity is incorporated into a homemade insert which is placed inside a variable temperature insert of a Janis {sup 4}He cryostat. The temperaturemore » range for sample investigation is 1.25–300 K. A Bruker EPR 300E and Andor 500i optical spectrograph incorporated with a Newton EMCCD camera are used for ESR and optical registration, respectively. The current experimental system makes it possible to study the ESR and optical spectra of impurity-helium condensates simultaneously. The setup allows a broad range of research at low temperatures including optically detected magnetic resonance, studies of chemical processes of the active species produced by photolysis in solid matrices, and investigations of nanoclusters produced by laser ablation in superfluid helium.« less

Life on rock. Scaling down biological weathering in a new experimental design at Biosphere-2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaharescu, D. G.; Dontsova, K.; Burghelea, C. I.; Chorover, J.; Maier, R.; Perdrial, J. N.

2012-12-01

Biological colonization and weathering of bedrock on Earth is a major driver of landscape and ecosystem development, its effects reaching out into other major systems such climate and geochemical cycles of elements. In order to understand how microbe-plant-mycorrhizae communities interact with bedrock in the first phases of mineral weathering we developed a novel experimental design in the Desert Biome at Biosphere-2, University of Arizona (U.S.A). This presentation will focus on the development of the experimental setup. Briefly, six enclosed modules were designed to hold 288 experimental columns that will accommodate 4 rock types and 6 biological treatments. Each module is developed on 3 levels. A lower volume, able to withstand the weight of both, rock material and the rest of the structure, accommodates the sampling elements. A middle volume, houses the experimental columns in a dark chamber. A clear, upper section forms the habitat exposed to sunlight. This volume is completely sealed form exterior and it allows a complete control of its air and water parameters. All modules are connected in parallel with a double air purification system that delivers a permanent air flow. This setup is expected to provide a model experiment, able to test important processes in the interaction rock-life at grain-to- molecular scale.

Experimental study on melting and flowing behavior of thermoplastics combustion based on a new setup with a T-shape trough.

PubMed

Xie, Qiyuan; Zhang, Heping; Ye, Ruibo

2009-07-30

The objective of this work is to quantitatively study the burning characteristics of thermoplastics. A new experimental setup with a T-shape trough is designed. Based on this setup, the loop mechanism between the wall fire and pool fires induced by the melting and dripping of thermoplastic can be well simulated and studied. Additionally, the flowing characteristics of pool fires can also be quantitatively analyzed. Experiments are conducted for PP and PE sheets with different thicknesses. The maximum distances of the induced flowing pool flame in the T-shape trough are recorded and analyzed. The typical fire parameters, such as heat release rates (HRRs), CO concentrations are also monitored. The results show that the softening and clinging of the thermoplastic sheets plays a considerable role for their vertical wall burning. It is illustrated that the clinging of burning thermoplastic sheet may be mainly related with the softening temperatures and the ignition temperatures of the thermoplastics, as well as their viscosity coefficients. Through comparing the maximum distances of flowing flame of induced pool fires in the T-shape trough for thermoplastic sheets with different thicknesses, it is indicated that the pool fires induced by PE materials are easier to flow away than that of PP materials. Therefore, PE materials may be more dangerous for their faster pool fire spread on the floor. These experimental results preliminarily illustrate that this new experimental setup is helpful for quantitatively studying the special burning feature of thermoplastics although further modifications is needed for this setup in the future.

Integrated trimodal SSEP experimental setup for visual, auditory and tactile stimulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuś, Rafał; Spustek, Tomasz; Zieleniewska, Magdalena; Duszyk, Anna; Rogowski, Piotr; Suffczyński, Piotr

2017-12-01

Objective. Steady-state evoked potentials (SSEPs), the brain responses to repetitive stimulation, are commonly used in both clinical practice and scientific research. Particular brain mechanisms underlying SSEPs in different modalities (i.e. visual, auditory and tactile) are very complex and still not completely understood. Each response has distinct resonant frequencies and exhibits a particular brain topography. Moreover, the topography can be frequency-dependent, as in case of auditory potentials. However, to study each modality separately and also to investigate multisensory interactions through multimodal experiments, a proper experimental setup appears to be of critical importance. The aim of this study was to design and evaluate a novel SSEP experimental setup providing a repetitive stimulation in three different modalities (visual, tactile and auditory) with a precise control of stimuli parameters. Results from a pilot study with a stimulation in a particular modality and in two modalities simultaneously prove the feasibility of the device to study SSEP phenomenon. Approach. We developed a setup of three separate stimulators that allows for a precise generation of repetitive stimuli. Besides sequential stimulation in a particular modality, parallel stimulation in up to three different modalities can be delivered. Stimulus in each modality is characterized by a stimulation frequency and a waveform (sine or square wave). We also present a novel methodology for the analysis of SSEPs. Main results. Apart from constructing the experimental setup, we conducted a pilot study with both sequential and simultaneous stimulation paradigms. EEG signals recorded during this study were analyzed with advanced methodology based on spatial filtering and adaptive approximation, followed by statistical evaluation. Significance. We developed a novel experimental setup for performing SSEP experiments. In this sense our study continues the ongoing research in this field. On the other hand, the described setup along with the presented methodology is a considerable improvement and an extension of methods constituting the state-of-the-art in the related field. Device flexibility both with developed analysis methodology can lead to further development of diagnostic methods and provide deeper insight into information processing in the human brain.

High speed stereovision setup for position and motion estimation of fertilizer particles leaving a centrifugal spreader.

PubMed

Hijazi, Bilal; Cool, Simon; Vangeyte, Jürgen; Mertens, Koen C; Cointault, Frédéric; Paindavoine, Michel; Pieters, Jan G

2014-11-13

A 3D imaging technique using a high speed binocular stereovision system was developed in combination with corresponding image processing algorithms for accurate determination of the parameters of particles leaving the spinning disks of centrifugal fertilizer spreaders. Validation of the stereo-matching algorithm using a virtual 3D stereovision simulator indicated an error of less than 2 pixels for 90% of the particles. The setup was validated using the cylindrical spread pattern of an experimental spreader. A 2D correlation coefficient of 90% and a Relative Error of 27% was found between the experimental results and the (simulated) spread pattern obtained with the developed setup. In combination with a ballistic flight model, the developed image acquisition and processing algorithms can enable fast determination and evaluation of the spread pattern which can be used as a tool for spreader design and precise machine calibration.

The fluid mechanics of channel fracturing flows: experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rashedi, Ahmadreza; Tucker, Zachery; Ovarlez, Guillaume; Hormozi, Sarah

2017-11-01

We show our preliminary experimental results on the role of fluid mechanics in channel fracturing flows, particularly yield stress fracturing fluids. Recent trends in the oil industry have included the use of cyclic pumping of a proppant slurry interspersed with a yield stress fracturing fluid, which is found to increase wells productivity, if particles disperse in a certain fashion. Our experimental study aims to investigate the physical mechanisms responsible for dispersing the particles (proppant) within a yield stress carrier fluid, and to measure the dispersion of proppant slugs in various fracturing regimes. To this end we have designed and built a unique experimental setup that resembles a fracture configuration coupled with a particle image/tracking velocimetry setup operating at micro to macro dimensions. Moreover, we have designed optically engineered suspensions of complex fluids with tunable yield stress and consistency, well controlled density match-mismatch properties and refractive indices for both X-rays and visible lights. We present our experimental system and preliminary results. NSF (Grant No. CBET-1554044- CAREER), ACS PRF (Grant No. 55661-DNI9).

Redesigning the Urban Design Studio: Two Learning Experiments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pak, Burak; Verbeke, Johan

2013-01-01

The main aim of this paper is to discuss how the combination of Web 2.0, social media and geographic technologies can provide opportunities for learning and new forms of participation in an urban design studio. This discussion is mainly based on our recent findings from two experimental urban design studio setups as well as former research and…

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Moura, Eduardo S., E-mail: emoura@wisc.edu; Micka, John A.; Hammer, Cliff G.

Purpose: This work presents the development of a phantom to verify the treatment planning system (TPS) algorithms used for high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy. It is designed to measure the relative dose in a heterogeneous media. The experimental details used, simulation methods, and comparisons with a commercial TPS are also provided. Methods: To simulate heterogeneous conditions, four materials were used: Virtual Water™ (VM), BR50/50™, cork, and aluminum. The materials were arranged in 11 heterogeneity configurations. Three dosimeters were used to measure the relative response from a HDR {sup 192}Ir source: TLD-100™, Gafchromic{sup ®} EBT3 film, and an Exradin™ A1SL ionization chamber. Tomore » compare the results from the experimental measurements, the various configurations were modeled in the PENELOPE/penEasy Monte Carlo code. Images of each setup geometry were acquired from a CT scanner and imported into BrachyVision™ TPS software, which includes a grid-based Boltzmann solver Acuros™. The results of the measurements performed in the heterogeneous setups were normalized to the dose values measured in the homogeneous Virtual Water™ setup and the respective differences due to the heterogeneities were considered. Additionally, dose values calculated based on the American Association of Physicists in Medicine-Task Group 43 formalism were compared to dose values calculated with the Acuros™ algorithm in the phantom. Calculated doses were compared at the same points, where measurements have been performed. Results: Differences in the relative response as high as 11.5% were found from the homogeneous setup when the heterogeneous materials were inserted into the experimental phantom. The aluminum and cork materials produced larger differences than the plastic materials, with the BR50/50™ material producing results similar to the Virtual Water™ results. Our experimental methods agree with the PENELOPE/penEasy simulations for most setups and dosimeters. The TPS relative differences with the Acuros™ algorithm were similar in both experimental and simulated setups. The discrepancy between the BrachyVision™, Acuros™, and TG-43 dose responses in the phantom described by this work exceeded 12% for certain setups. Conclusions: The results derived from the phantom measurements show good agreement with the simulations and TPS calculations, using Acuros™ algorithm. Differences in the dose responses were evident in the experimental results when heterogeneous materials were introduced. These measurements prove the usefulness of the heterogeneous phantom for verification of HDR treatment planning systems based on model-based dose calculation algorithms.« less

An experimental investigation of convective heat transfer at evaporation of kerosene and water in the closed volume

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Trushlyakov, V. I.; Lesnyak, I. Y.; Galfetti, L.

2017-09-01

An evaporation of kerosene and water was investigated based on convective heat transfer in the experimental setup simulating a typical volume of the fuel tank of the launch vehicle. Basic criteria of similarity used in choosing the design parameters of the setup, parameters of the coolant and model liquids, were numbers of Reynolds, Prandtl, Biot, and Nusselt. The used coolants were gases, including air and nitrogen; in addition, at the stage of preliminary experiments, products of combustion of hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) were considered. Boundary conditions were taken for the liquid located on the plate in the form of "drop" and at its uniform film spread in the experimental model setup. On the basis of experimental investigations, the temperature values were obtained for the system "gas-liquid-wall", and areas of mass transfer surface and heat transfer coefficients of "gas-liquid" and "gas-plate" were determined for coolants (air and nitrogen) and for liquids (water and kerosene). The comparative analysis of the obtained results and the known data was carried out. Proposals for experiments using coolants based on HTPB combustion products have been formulated.

Supercritical Water Experimental Setup for µSR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Guangdong; Chen, Yanggang; Morrison, Alexander H.; Koda, Akihiro; Percival, Paul W.; Ghandi, Khashayar

The Canadian design for Generation IV nuclear reactors uses supercritical water (SCW, water above its critical point of 374 °C, 221 bar (1 bar = 100 kPa)) as the coolant. Supercritical water-cooled reactors (SCWRs) are designed towards sustainability, economic benefits, improved safety, and longer lifespan. Despite the potential advantages of SCWRs, we know very little about the kinetics of radiolysis products that are formed in them because of the limitations of experimental instruments under the extreme conditions of SCW. The radiolysis products can accumulate over time and create a very corrosive environment. Our group has developed and tested an apparatus suitable for muon spin rotation (µSR) studies of water and aqueous solutions up to 550 °C and 250 bar, close to the conditions at the reactor outlet of the proposed Canadian SCWR design (625 °C and 250 bar). The reaction kinetics information obtained from our setup, together with computer simulations, will aid us in developing chemical control strategies to minimize corrosion in SCWRs.

Design and Fabrication of a Magnetic System to Investigate Magnetized Dusty Plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bates, Evan M.; Romero-Talamas, Carlos A.

2013-10-01

The interest in researching the dynamics and equilibrium of magnetized dusty plasma crystallization has led to the design and fabrication of a novel experimental setup at UMBC. The proposed magnets will be an important subsystem of this setup, and will produce a uniform magnetic field of several tesla for a duration of several seconds. The magnets will be arranged in the Helmholtz configuration and will have a cooling system for temperature compensation of the coils, as well as the ability to adjust the orientation of the magnetic field with respect to gravity. Planned experiments include propagation of magnetized waves in dusty plasma crystals under various boundary conditions.

Omega Design and FEA Based Coriolis Mass Flow Sensor (CMFS) Analysis Using Titanium Material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patil, Pravin P.; Kumar, Ashwani; Ahmad, Faraz

2018-02-01

The main highlight of this research work is evaluation of resonant frequency for titanium omega type coriolis mass flow sensor. Coriolis mass flow sensor is used for measuring direct mass flow in pipe useful for various industrial applications. It works on the principle of Coriolis effect. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulation of omega flow sensor was performed using Ansys 14.5 and Solid Edge, Pro-E was used for modelling of omega tube. Titanium was selected as omega tube material. Experimental setup was prepared for omega tube coriolis flow sensor for performing different test. Experimental setup was used for investigation of different parameters effect on CMFS and validation of simulation results.

Optical implementation of (3, 3, 2) regular rectangular CC-Banyan optical network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Junbo; Su, Xianyu

2007-07-01

CC-Banyan network plays an important role in the optical interconnection network. Based on previous reports of (2, 2, 3) the CC-Banyan network, another rectangular-Banyan network, i.e. (3, 3, 2) rectangular CC-Banyan network, has been discussed. First, according to its construction principle, the topological graph and the routing rule of (3, 3, 2) rectangular CC-Banyan network have been proposed. Then, the optically experimental setup of (3, 3, 2) rectangular CC-Banyan network has been designed and achieved. Each stage of node switch consists of phase spatial light modulator (PSLM) and polarizing beam-splitter (PBS), and fiber has been used to perform connection between adjacent stages. PBS features that s-component (perpendicular to the incident plane) of the incident light beam is reflected, and p-component (parallel to the incident plane) passes through it. According to switching logic, under the control of external electrical signals, PSLM functions to control routing paths of the signal beams, i.e. the polarization of each optical signal is rotated or not rotated 90° by a programmable PSLM. Finally, the discussion and analysis show that the experimental setup designed here can realize many functions such as optical signal switch and permutation. It has advantages of large number of input/output-ports, compact in structure, and low energy loss. Hence, the experimental setup can be used in optical communication and optical information processing.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ribezzi-Crivellari, M.; Huguet, J. M.; Ritort, F.

We present a dual-trap optical tweezers setup which directly measures forces using linear momentum conservation. The setup uses a counter-propagating geometry, which allows momentum measurement on each beam separately. The experimental advantages of this setup include low drift due to all-optical manipulation, and a robust calibration (independent of the features of the trapped object or buffer medium) due to the force measurement method. Although this design does not attain the high-resolution of some co-propagating setups, we show that it can be used to perform different single molecule measurements: fluctuation-based molecular stiffness characterization at different forces and hopping experiments on molecularmore » hairpins. Remarkably, in our setup it is possible to manipulate very short tethers (such as molecular hairpins with short handles) down to the limit where beads are almost in contact. The setup is used to illustrate a novel method for measuring the stiffness of optical traps and tethers on the basis of equilibrium force fluctuations, i.e., without the need of measuring the force vs molecular extension curve. This method is of general interest for dual trap optical tweezers setups and can be extended to setups which do not directly measure forces.« less

Experimental setup for the study of resonant inelastic X-ray scattering of organometallic complexes in gas phase

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ismail, I.; Guillemin, R.; Marchenko, T.; Travnikova, O.; Ablett, J. M.; Rueff, J.-P.; Piancastelli, M.-N.; Simon, M.; Journel, L.

2018-06-01

A new setup has been designed and built to study organometallic complexes in gas phase at the third-generation Synchrotron radiation sources. This setup consists of a new homemade computer-controlled gas cell that allows us to sublimate solid samples by accurately controlling the temperature. This cell has been developed to be a part of the high-resolution X-ray emission spectrometer permanently installed at the GALAXIES beamline of the French National Synchrotron Facility SOLEIL. To illustrate the capabilities of the setup, the cell has been successfully used to record high-resolution Kα emission spectra of gas-phase ferrocene F e (C5H5) 2 and to characterize their dependence with the excitation energy. This will allow to extend resonant X-ray emission to different organometallic molecules.

Evaluation of transverse dispersion effects in tank experiments by numerical modeling: parameter estimation, sensitivity analysis and revision of experimental design.

PubMed

Ballarini, E; Bauer, S; Eberhardt, C; Beyer, C

2012-06-01

Transverse dispersion represents an important mixing process for transport of contaminants in groundwater and constitutes an essential prerequisite for geochemical and biodegradation reactions. Within this context, this work describes the detailed numerical simulation of highly controlled laboratory experiments using uranine, bromide and oxygen depleted water as conservative tracers for the quantification of transverse mixing in porous media. Synthetic numerical experiments reproducing an existing laboratory experimental set-up of quasi two-dimensional flow through tank were performed to assess the applicability of an analytical solution of the 2D advection-dispersion equation for the estimation of transverse dispersivity as fitting parameter. The fitted dispersivities were compared to the "true" values introduced in the numerical simulations and the associated error could be precisely estimated. A sensitivity analysis was performed on the experimental set-up in order to evaluate the sensitivities of the measurements taken at the tank experiment on the individual hydraulic and transport parameters. From the results, an improved experimental set-up as well as a numerical evaluation procedure could be developed, which allow for a precise and reliable determination of dispersivities. The improved tank set-up was used for new laboratory experiments, performed at advective velocities of 4.9 m d(-1) and 10.5 m d(-1). Numerical evaluation of these experiments yielded a unique and reliable parameter set, which closely fits the measured tracer concentration data. For the porous medium with a grain size of 0.25-0.30 mm, the fitted longitudinal and transverse dispersivities were 3.49×10(-4) m and 1.48×10(-5) m, respectively. The procedures developed in this paper for the synthetic and rigorous design and evaluation of the experiments can be generalized and transferred to comparable applications. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A Simple Experimental Setup for Teaching Additive Colors with Arduino

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carvalho, Paulo Simeão; Hahn, Marcelo

2016-04-01

The result of additive colors is always fascinating to young students. When we teach this topic to 14- to 16-year-old students, they do not usually notice we use maximum light quantities of red (R), green (G), and blue (B) to obtain yellow, magenta, and cyan colors in order to build the well-known additive color diagram of Fig. 1. But how about using different light intensities for R, G, and B? What colors do we get? This problem of color mixing has been intensively discussed for decades by several authors, as pointed out by Ruiz's "Color Addition and Subtraction Apps" work and the references included therein. An early LED demonstrator for additive color mixing dates back to 1985, and apps to illustrate color mixing are available online. In this work, we describe an experimental setup making use of a microcontroller device: the Arduino Uno. This setup is designed as a game in order to improve students' understanding of color mixing.

Lithographically fabricated silicon microreactor for in situ characterization of heterogeneous catalysts—Enabling correlative characterization techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baier, S.; Rochet, A.; Hofmann, G.; Kraut, M.; Grunwaldt, J.-D.

2015-06-01

We report on a new modular setup on a silicon-based microreactor designed for correlative spectroscopic, scattering, and analytic on-line gas investigations for in situ studies of heterogeneous catalysts. The silicon microreactor allows a combination of synchrotron radiation based techniques (e.g., X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy) as well as infrared thermography and Raman spectroscopy. Catalytic performance can be determined simultaneously by on-line product analysis using mass spectrometry. We present the design of the reactor, the experimental setup, and as a first example for an in situ study, the catalytic partial oxidation of methane showing the applicability of this reactor for in situ studies.

Lithographically fabricated silicon microreactor for in situ characterization of heterogeneous catalysts—Enabling correlative characterization techniques.

PubMed

Baier, S; Rochet, A; Hofmann, G; Kraut, M; Grunwaldt, J-D

2015-06-01

We report on a new modular setup on a silicon-based microreactor designed for correlative spectroscopic, scattering, and analytic on-line gas investigations for in situ studies of heterogeneous catalysts. The silicon microreactor allows a combination of synchrotron radiation based techniques (e.g., X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy) as well as infrared thermography and Raman spectroscopy. Catalytic performance can be determined simultaneously by on-line product analysis using mass spectrometry. We present the design of the reactor, the experimental setup, and as a first example for an in situ study, the catalytic partial oxidation of methane showing the applicability of this reactor for in situ studies.

The development of the experimental setup for measuring the cell membrane electrical potential by Sucrose-Gap Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuzhakov, AD; Nosarev, AV; Aleinik, AN

2017-11-01

This article describes the development of the experimental setup for measuring the cell membrane electrical potential by Double -Sucrose-Gap Technique. The double-gap isolation method allows the simultaneous measurement of electrical activity and tension output from contracting segments of muscle fibers. This technique has been widely used as a convenient tool for recording of the membrane activities from myelinated or unmyelinated nerves and muscle preparations. This device can be an effective way to provide undergraduate biomedical engineering students with invaluable experiences in neurophysiology. The installation design and its main characteristics are described. The advantages of the described device are the simplicity of the experiment, relatively low cost, the possibility of long-term experiment.

Velocity Measurements in Nasal Cavities by Means of Stereoscopic Piv - Preliminary Tests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cozzi, Fabio; Felisati, Giovanni; Quadrio, Maurizio

2017-08-01

The prediction of detailed flow patterns in human nasal cavities using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can provide essential information on the potential relationship between patient-specific geometrical characteristics of the nasal anatomy and health problems, and ultimately led to improved surgery. The complex flow structure and the intricate geometry of the nasal cavities make achieving such goals a challenge for CFD specialists. The need for experimental data to validate and improve the numerical simulations is particularly crucial. To this aim an experimental set-up based on Stereo PIV and a silicon phantom of nasal cavities have been designed and realized at Politecnico di Milano. This work describes the main features and challenges of the set-up along with some preliminary results.

Coherent properties of ultraweak photon emission from biological system and its application in medicine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Yanbin; Ma, Junfu; Guo, Zhouyi

2001-10-01

In the paper the research status and viewpoints about the coherent of the ultra-weak photon emission from biological system (UPE) were simply introduced. For proving the biophotons indeed have coherent from another side, an experimental setup for testing UPE in different spectral region was designed. Using the experimental setup the test data of different several spectral regions from 300nm to 1060nm has been got. These test results show that UPE of living biological system exists in wide spectra region from UV-visible to infrared. Using the test data, we also can obtain the important conclusion of UPE has coherence. In the end of this paper, the UPE's application in medicine was discussed.

Detecting technology of biophotons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Junfu; Zhu, Zhaohui; Zhu, Yanbin

2002-03-01

A key technique of detecting the ultra-weak photon emission from biological system (UPE) is to change the light signal of an extremely weak level into electric signal of a considerable level when the photo-electric detecting system were be applied. This paper analyzed the difficult for detecting the ultra-weak photon emission from biological system (UPE) mainly is in the absence of high sensitivity detector in UV-visible-infra spectra region. An experimental setup for testing UPE in different spectral region was designed. Using the experimental setup the test data of different several spectral regions from 300 nm to 1060 nm has were tested. The test result show the UPE of living biological system exists in wide spectra region from UV- visible to infrared.

Experimental and numerical investigation of the nonlinear dynamics of compliant mechanisms for deployable structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dewalque, Florence; Schwartz, Cédric; Denoël, Vincent; Croisier, Jean-Louis; Forthomme, Bénédicte; Brüls, Olivier

2018-02-01

This paper studies the dynamics of tape springs which are characterised by a highly geometrical nonlinear behaviour including buckling, the formation of folds and hysteresis. An experimental set-up is designed to capture these complex nonlinear phenomena. The experimental data are acquired by the means of a 3D motion analysis system combined with a synchronised force plate. Deployment tests show that the motion can be divided into three phases characterised by different types of folds, frequencies of oscillation and damping behaviours. Furthermore, the reproducibility quality of the dynamic and quasi-static results is validated by performing a large number of tests. In parallel, a nonlinear finite element model is developed. The required model parameters are identified based on simple experimental tests such as static deformed configurations and small amplitude vibration tests. In the end, the model proves to be well correlated with the experimental results in opposite sense bending, while in equal sense, both the experimental set-up and the numerical model are particularly sensitive to the initial conditions.

Multicolour LEDs in educational demonstrations of physics and optometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paulins, Paulis; Ozolinsh, Maris

2014-07-01

LED light sources are used to design experimental setup for university courses teaching human color vision. The setup allows to demonstrate various vision characteristics and to apply for student practical exercises to study eye spectral sensitivity in different spectral range using heterochromatic flicker photometry. Technique can be used in laboratory works for students to acquire knowledge in visual perception, basics of electronics and measuring, or it can be applied as fully computer control experiment. Besides studies of the eye spectral sensitivity students can practice in trichromatic color matching and other visual perception tasks

Gust wind tunnel study on ballast pick-up by high-speed trains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Navarro-Medina, F.; Sanz-Andres, A.; Perez-Grande, I.

2012-01-01

This paper describes the experimental setup, procedure, and results obtained, concerning the dynamics of a body lying on a floor, attached to a hinge, and exposed to an unsteady flow, which is a model of the initiation of rotational motion of ballast stones due to the wind generated by the passing of a high-speed train. The idea is to obtain experimental data to support the theoretical model developed in Sanz-Andres and Navarro-Medina (J Wind Eng Ind Aerodyn 98, 772-783, (2010), aimed at analyzing the initial phase of the ballast train-induced-wind erosion (BATIWE) phenomenon. The experimental setup is based on an open circuit, closed test section, low-speed wind tunnel, with a new sinusoidal gust generator mechanism concept, designed and built at the IDR/UPM. The tunnel's main characteristic is the ability to generate a flow with a uniform velocity profile and sinusoidal time fluctuation of the speed. Experimental results and theoretical model predictions are in good agreement.

Controlled experiments for dense gas diffusion: Experimental design and execution, model comparison

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Egami, R.; Bowen, J.; Coulombe, W.

1995-07-01

An experimental baseline CO2 release experiment at the DOE Spill Test Facility on the Nevada Test Site in Southern Nevada is described. This experiment was unique in its use of CO2 as a surrogate gas representative of a variety of specific chemicals. Introductory discussion places the experiment in historical perspective. CO2 was selected as a surrogate gas to provide a data base suitable for evaluation of model scenarios involving a variety of specific dense gases. The experiment design and setup are described, including design rationale and quality assurance methods employed. Resulting experimental data are summarized. Data usefulness is examined throughmore » a preliminary comparison of experimental results with simulations performed using the SLAV and DEGADIS dense gas models.« less

An Apparatus for the Simultaneous Measurements of Thermal Conductivity, Thermal Expansion and Thermal Diffusivity of FRPs Using GM Refrigerator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kanagaraj, S.; Pattanayak, S.

2004-06-01

The applications of fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) materials in cryogenic engineering have stimulated keen interest in the investigation of its properties. The reliable design data generated by a precisely controlled setup at identical environment of its applications are extremely important. This paper describes an apparatus based on a GM refrigerator for the simultaneous measurements of thermal conductivity, thermal expansion and thermal diffusivity using a double-specimen guarded-hotplate, 3-terminal capacitance technique and Angstrom method respectively in the temperature range from 30 K to 300 K. An integrated and perfectly insulated sample holder is designed and fabricated in such a way that the simultaneous measurements of the above properties are conveniently and accurately carried out at different temperatures. A set of stability criteria has been followed during the measurements to ensure the accuracy of the experimental data. The setup is calibrated with stainless steel and copper and the experimental results are within 10 % of the published results given in the literatures.

Facility for Heavy Ion Collision Experiment at RAON

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Young Jin; Kim, Do Gyun; Kim, Gi Dong; Kim, Yong Hak; Kim, Young-Jin; Kim, Yong Kyun; Kwon, Young Kwan; Yun, Chong Cheol; Hong, Byungsik; Sei Lee, Kyung; Kim, Eun Joo; Ahn, Jung Keun; Lee, Hyo Sang

2014-03-01

The Rare Isotope Science Project (RISP) was established in December 2011 in order to carry out the technical design and the establishment of the accelerator complex (RAON) for the rare isotope science in Korea. The rare isotope accelerator at RAON will provide both stable and rare isotope heavy-ion beams the energy range from a few MeV/nucleon to a few hundreds of MeV/nucleon for researches in fields of basic and applied science. Large Acceptance Multipurpose Spectrometer (LAMPS) at RAON is a heavy-ion collision experimental facility for studying nuclear symmetry energy by using rare isotope beams. Two different experimental setups of LAMPS are designed for covering entire energy range at RAON. One is for low energy (< 18.5 MeV/nucleon) heavy-ion collision experiment for day-1 experiments. This experimental setup consists of an array of ΔE-E Si-CsI detectors, a gamma array to cover backward polar angle, and a forward neutron wall. The other is for completing an event reconstruction by detecting all the particles produced in high energy heavy-ion collisions within a large acceptance angle to measure particle spectrum, yield, ratio and collective flow of pions, protons, neutrons, and intermediate fragments at the same time. The experimental setup consists of a superconducting spectrometer, a dipole spectrometer, and a forward neutron wall. A Time Projection Chamber (TPC) will be placed inside of superconducting solenoid magnet of 0.6 T for charged particle tracking. The dipole spectrometer will be located forward of the superconducting spectrometer and it will be composed of a combination of quadrupole, dipole magnets, focal plane detector, tracking stations, and Time-of-Flight (ToF) detector at the end. The neutron wall will be made of 10 layers of plastic scintillators for neutron tracking. In this presentation, the detail physics and design of LAMPS at RAON will be discussed.

Reliable measurement of E. coli single cell fluorescence distribution using a standard microscope set-up.

PubMed

Cortesi, Marilisa; Bandiera, Lucia; Pasini, Alice; Bevilacqua, Alessandro; Gherardi, Alessandro; Furini, Simone; Giordano, Emanuele

2017-01-01

Quantifying gene expression at single cell level is fundamental for the complete characterization of synthetic gene circuits, due to the significant impact of noise and inter-cellular variability on the system's functionality. Commercial set-ups that allow the acquisition of fluorescent signal at single cell level (flow cytometers or quantitative microscopes) are expensive apparatuses that are hardly affordable by small laboratories. A protocol that makes a standard optical microscope able to acquire quantitative, single cell, fluorescent data from a bacterial population transformed with synthetic gene circuitry is presented. Single cell fluorescence values, acquired with a microscope set-up and processed with custom-made software, are compared with results that were obtained with a flow cytometer in a bacterial population transformed with the same gene circuitry. The high correlation between data from the two experimental set-ups, with a correlation coefficient computed over the tested dynamic range > 0.99, proves that a standard optical microscope- when coupled with appropriate software for image processing- might be used for quantitative single-cell fluorescence measurements. The calibration of the set-up, together with its validation, is described. The experimental protocol described in this paper makes quantitative measurement of single cell fluorescence accessible to laboratories equipped with standard optical microscope set-ups. Our method allows for an affordable measurement/quantification of intercellular variability, whose better understanding of this phenomenon will improve our comprehension of cellular behaviors and the design of synthetic gene circuits. All the required software is freely available to the synthetic biology community (MUSIQ Microscope flUorescence SIngle cell Quantification).

Lithographically fabricated silicon microreactor for in situ characterization of heterogeneous catalysts—Enabling correlative characterization techniques

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Baier, S.; Rochet, A.; Hofmann, G.

2015-06-15

We report on a new modular setup on a silicon-based microreactor designed for correlative spectroscopic, scattering, and analytic on-line gas investigations for in situ studies of heterogeneous catalysts. The silicon microreactor allows a combination of synchrotron radiation based techniques (e.g., X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy) as well as infrared thermography and Raman spectroscopy. Catalytic performance can be determined simultaneously by on-line product analysis using mass spectrometry. We present the design of the reactor, the experimental setup, and as a first example for an in situ study, the catalytic partial oxidation of methane showing the applicability of this reactor formore » in situ studies.« less

Experimental Studies on Dynamic Vibration Absorber using Shape Memory Alloy (NiTi) Springs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, V. Raj; Kumar, M. B. Bharathi Raj; Kumar, M. Senthil

2011-10-01

Shape memory alloy (SMA) springs have been used as actuators in many applications although their use in the vibration control area is very recent. Since shape memory alloys differ from conventional alloy materials in many ways, the traditional design approach for springs is not completely suitable for designing SMA springs. Some vibration control concepts utilizing unique characteristics of SMA's will be presented in this paper. A dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) using shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator is developed for attenuation of vibration in a cantilever beam. The design procedure of the DVA is presented. The system consists of a cantilever beam which is considered to generate the real-time vibration using shaker. A SMA spring is used with a mass attached to its end. The stiffness of the SMA spring is dynamically varied in such a way to attenuate the vibration. Both simulation and experimentation are carried out using PID controller. The experiments were carried out by interfacing the experimental setup with a computer using LabVIEW software, Data acquisition and control are implemented using a PCI data acquisition card. Standard PID controllers have been used to control the vibration of the beam. Experimental results are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the controllers designed and the usefulness of the proposed test platform by exciting the structure at resonance. In experimental setup, an accelerometer is used to measure the vibration which is fed to computer and correspondingly the SMA spring is actuated to change its stiffness to control the vibration. The results obtained illustrate that the developed DVA using SMA actuator is very effective in reducing structural response and have great potential to be an active vibration control medium.

Experimental Studies on Dynamic Vibration Absorber using Shape Memory Alloy (NiTi) Springs

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kumar, V. Raj; Kumar, M. B. Bharathi Raj; Kumar, M. Senthil

2011-10-20

Shape memory alloy (SMA) springs have been used as actuators in many applications although their use in the vibration control area is very recent. Since shape memory alloys differ from conventional alloy materials in many ways, the traditional design approach for springs is not completely suitable for designing SMA springs. Some vibration control concepts utilizing unique characteristics of SMA's will be presented in this paper.A dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) using shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator is developed for attenuation of vibration in a cantilever beam. The design procedure of the DVA is presented. The system consists of a cantilever beammore » which is considered to generate the real-time vibration using shaker. A SMA spring is used with a mass attached to its end. The stiffness of the SMA spring is dynamically varied in such a way to attenuate the vibration. Both simulation and experimentation are carried out using PID controller. The experiments were carried out by interfacing the experimental setup with a computer using LabVIEW software, Data acquisition and control are implemented using a PCI data acquisition card. Standard PID controllers have been used to control the vibration of the beam. Experimental results are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the controllers designed and the usefulness of the proposed test platform by exciting the structure at resonance. In experimental setup, an accelerometer is used to measure the vibration which is fed to computer and correspondingly the SMA spring is actuated to change its stiffness to control the vibration. The results obtained illustrate that the developed DVA using SMA actuator is very effective in reducing structural response and have great potential to be an active vibration control medium.« less

Application of Controlled Shear Stresses on the Erythrocyte Membrane as a New Approach to Promote Molecule Encapsulation.

PubMed

Casagrande, Giustina; Arienti, Flavio; Mazzocchi, Arabella; Taverna, Francesca; Ravagnani, Fernando; Costantino, MariaLaura

2016-10-01

Human red blood cells (RBCs) have a remarkable capacity to undergo reversible membrane swelling. Resealed erythrocytes have been proposed as carriers and bioreactors to be used in the treatment of various diseases. This work is aimed at developing a setup allowing the encapsulation of test molecules into erythrocytes by inducing reversible pore formation on the RBC membrane through the application of controlled mechanical shear stresses. The designed setup consists of two reservoirs connected by a glass capillary. Each reservoir is connected to a compressor; during the tests, the reservoirs were in turn pressurized to promote erythrocyte flow through the capillary. The setup was filled with a suspension of erythrocytes, phosphate buffer, and FITC-dextran. Dextran was chosen as the diffusive molecule to check membrane pore dimensions. Samples of the suspension were withdrawn at scheduled times while the setup was operating. Flow cytometry and stereo-optical microscopy analyses were used to evaluate the erythrocyte dextran uptake. The setup was shown to be safe, well controlled, and adjustable. The outcomes of the experimental tests showed significant dextran uptake by RBCs up to 8%. Microscopy observations highlighted the formation of echinocytes in the analyzed samples. Erythrocytes from different donors showed different reactions to mechanical stresses. The experimental outcomes proved the possibility to encapsulate test molecules into erythrocytes by applying controlled mechanical shear stresses on the RBC membrane, encouraging further studies. Copyright © 2016 International Center for Artificial Organs and Transplantation and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Torque Loss After Miniscrew Placement: An In-Vitro Study Followed by a Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Migliorati, Marco; Drago, Sara; Barberis, Fabrizio; Schiavetti, Irene; Dalessandri, Domenico; Benedicenti, Stefano; Biavati, Armando Silvestrini

2016-01-01

To evaluate torque loss a week after insertion, both in an in vivo and an in vitro experimental setup were designed. In the in vivo setup a total of 29 miniscrews were placed in 20 patients who underwent orthodontic treatment. Maximum insertion torque (MIT) was evaluated at insertion time (T1). A week later, insertion torque was measured again by applying a quarter turn (T2); no load was applied on the screw during the first week. In the in vitro setup a total of 20 miniscrews were placed in pig rib bone samples. MIT was evaluated at insertion time (T1). Bone samples were kept in saline solution and controlled environment for a week during which the solution was refreshed every day. Afterwards, torque was measured again by applying a quarter turn (T2). The comparison of MIT over time was done calculating the percentage difference of the torque values between pre- and post-treatment and using the parametric two independent samples t-test or the non-parametric Mann-Whitney test. After a week unloaded miniscrews showed a mean loss of rotational torque of 36.3% and 40.9% in in vitro and in in vivo conditions, respectively. No statistical differences were found between the two different setups. Torque loss was observed after the first week in both study models; in vitro experimental setup provided a reliable study model for studying torque variation during the first week after insertion.

Torque Loss After Miniscrew Placement: An In-Vitro Study Followed by a Clinical Trial

PubMed Central

Migliorati, Marco; Drago, Sara; Barberis, Fabrizio; Schiavetti, Irene; Dalessandri, Domenico; Benedicenti, Stefano; Biavati, Armando Silvestrini

2016-01-01

To evaluate torque loss a week after insertion, both in an in vivo and an in vitro experimental setup were designed. In the in vivo setup a total of 29 miniscrews were placed in 20 patients who underwent orthodontic treatment. Maximum insertion torque (MIT) was evaluated at insertion time (T1). A week later, insertion torque was measured again by applying a quarter turn (T2); no load was applied on the screw during the first week. In the in vitro setup a total of 20 miniscrews were placed in pig rib bone samples. MIT was evaluated at insertion time (T1). Bone samples were kept in saline solution and controlled environment for a week during which the solution was refreshed every day. Afterwards, torque was measured again by applying a quarter turn (T2). The comparison of MIT over time was done calculating the percentage difference of the torque values between pre- and post-treatment and using the parametric two independent samples t-test or the non-parametric Mann–Whitney test. After a week unloaded miniscrews showed a mean loss of rotational torque of 36.3% and 40.9% in in vitro and in in vivo conditions, respectively. No statistical differences were found between the two different setups. Torque loss was observed after the first week in both study models; in vitro experimental setup provided a reliable study model for studying torque variation during the first week after insertion. PMID:27386011

Indigenously developed bending strain setup for I-V characterization of superconducting tapes and wires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panchal, Arun; Bano, Anees; Ghate, Mahesh; Raj, Piyush; Pradhan, Subrata

2017-04-01

An indigenously developed bending strain setup to examine the effect of pure bending on critical current of superconducting tapes and strands has been presented in this paper. This set up is capable of applying various bending radius in situ at cryogenic temperature with rack and pinion gear mechanism. The bending strain applied on samples can be controlled externally by rotational input which is transferred in the form of bending radius during experiments. The working principle, design and optimization of this set up have been discussed. The performance and validation of this setup has been done on various HTS tapes and copper strands at 77 K in actual experimental facility. Effect of bending radius (15.5 mm - 48 mm) i.e. strains and ramp rate (2 A/s - 8 A/s) is observed on current capability of various HTS Tapes. It is observed that in uniform bending condition, degradation in current carrying capacity BSCCO and Di-BSCCO (˜ 30 %) is more as compare to YBCO (˜ 2.75 %) at 77 K. The effect of pure mechanical strain has been experimentally observed and presented.

Practical aspects of running DOE for improving growth media for in vitro plants

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Experiments using DOE software to improve plant tissue culture growth medium are complicated and require complex setups. Once the experimental design is set and the treatment points calculated, media sheets and mixing charts must be developed. Since these experiments require three passages on the sa...

An Introduction to Fast Fourier Transforms through the Study of Oscillating Reactions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eastman, M. P.; And Others

1986-01-01

Discusses an experiment designed to introduce students to the basic principles of the fast Fourier transform and Fourier smoothing through transformation of time-dependent optical absorption data from an oscillating reaction. Uses the Belousov-Zhabotinskii reaction. Describes the experimental setup and data analysis techniques.

Commissioning and initial experimental program of the BGO-OD experiment at ELSA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alef, S.; Bauer, P.; Bayadilov, D.; Beck, R.; Becker, M.; Bella, A.; Bielefeldt, P.; Böse, S.; Braghieri, A.; Brinkmann, K.; Cole, P.; Di Salvo, R.; Dutz, H.; Elsner, D.; Fantini, A.; Freyermuth, O.; Friedrich, S.; Frommberger, F.; Ganenko, V.; Geffers, D.; Gervino, G.; Ghio, F.; Görtz, S.; Gridnev, A.; Gutz, E.; Hammann, D.; Hannappel, J.; Hillert, W.; Ignatov, A.; Jahn, R.; Joosten, R.; Jude, T. C.; Klein, F.; Knaust, J.; Kohl, K.; Koop, K.; Krusche, B.; Lapik, A.; Levi Sandri, P.; Lopatin, I. V.; Mandaglio, G.; Messi, F.; Messi, R.; Metag, V.; Moricciani, D.; Mushkarenkov, A.; Nanova, M.; Nedorezov, V.; Novinskiy, D.; Pedroni, P.; Reitz, B.; Romaniuk, M.; Rostomyan, T.; Rudnev, N.; Schaerf, C.; Scheluchin, G.; Schmieden, H.; Stugelev, A.; Sumachev, V.; Tarakanov, V.; Vegna, V.; Walther, D.; Watts, D.; Zaunick, H.; Zimmermann, T.

2016-11-01

BGO-OD is a new meson photoproduction experiment at the ELSA facility of Bonn University. It aims at the investigation of non strange and strange baryon excitations, and is especially designed to be able to detect weekly bound meson-baryon type structures. The setup for the BGO-OD experiment is presented, the characteristics of the photon beam and the detector performances are shown and the initial experimental program is discussed.

Experimental study of a valveless pulse detonation rocket engine using nontoxic hypergolic propellants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kan, Brandon K.

A pulsed detonation rocket engine concept was explored through the use of hypergolic propellants in a fuel-centered pintle injector combustor. The combustor design yielded a simple open ended chamber with a pintle type injection element and pressure instrumentation. High-frequency pressure measurements from the first test series showed the presence of large pressure oscillations in excess of 2000 psia at frequencies between 400-600 hz during operation. High-speed video confirmed the high-frequency pulsed behavior and large amounts of after burning. Damaged hardware and instrumentation failure limited the amount of data gathered in the first test series, but the experiments met original test objectives of producing large over-pressures in an open chamber. A second test series proceeded by replacing hardware and instrumentation, and new data showed that pulsed events produced under expanded exhaust prior to pulsing, peak pressures around 8000 psi, and operating frequencies between 400-800 hz. Later hot-fires produced no pulsed behavior despite undamaged hardware. The research succeeded in producing pulsed combustion behavior using hypergolic fuels in a pintle injector setup and provided insights into design concepts that would assist future injector designs and experimental test setups.

Combustion of LOX with H2(sub g) under subcritical, critical, and supercritical conditions (Task 1) and experimental observation of dense spray and mixing of impinging jets (Task 2)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kuo, K. K.; Hsieh, W. H.; Cheung, F. B.; Yang, A. S.; Brown, J. J.; Woodward, R. D.; Kline, M. C.; Burch, R. L.

1992-01-01

The objective was to achieve a better understanding of the combustion processes of liquid oxygen and gaseous hydrogen under broad range of pressure covering subcritical, critical, and supercritical conditions. The scope of the experimental work falls into the following areas: (1) design of the overall experimental setup; (2) modification of an existing windowed high pressure chamber; (3) design of the LOX feeding system; (4) provision of the safety features in the test rig design; (5) LOX cleanliness requirements; (6) cold shock testing; (7) implementation of data acquisition systems; (8) preliminary tests for system checkout; (9) modification of LOX feeding system; and (10) evaporation tests. Progress in each area is discussed.

Photonic crystal enhanced silicon cell based thermophotovoltaic systems

DOE PAGES

Yeng, Yi Xiang; Chan, Walker R.; Rinnerbauer, Veronika; ...

2015-01-30

We report the design, optimization, and experimental results of large area commercial silicon solar cell based thermophotovoltaic (TPV) energy conversion systems. Using global non-linear optimization tools, we demonstrate theoretically a maximum radiative heat-to-electricity efficiency of 6.4% and a corresponding output electrical power density of 0.39 W cm⁻² at temperature T = 1660 K when implementing both the optimized two-dimensional (2D) tantalum photonic crystal (PhC) selective emitter, and the optimized 1D tantalum pentoxide – silicon dioxide PhC cold-side selective filter. In addition, we have developed an experimental large area TPV test setup that enables accurate measurement of radiative heat-to-electricity efficiency formore » any emitter-filter-TPV cell combination of interest. In fact, the experimental results match extremely well with predictions of our numerical models. Our experimental setup achieved a maximum output electrical power density of 0.10W cm⁻² and radiative heat-to-electricity efficiency of 1.18% at T = 1380 K using commercial wafer size back-contacted silicon solar cells.« less

Experimental setups for FEL-based four-wave mixing experiments at FERMI

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bencivenga, Filippo; Zangrando, Marco; Svetina, Cristian

2016-01-01

The recent advent of free-electron laser (FEL) sources is driving the scientific community to extend table-top laser research to shorter wavelengths adding elemental selectivity and chemical state specificity. Both a compact setup (mini-TIMER) and a separate instrument (EIS-TIMER) dedicated to four-wave-mixing (FWM) experiments has been designed and constructed, to be operated as a branch of the Elastic and Inelastic Scattering beamline: EIS. The FWM experiments that are planned at EIS-TIMER are based on the transient grating approach, where two crossed FEL pulses create a controlled modulation of the sample excitations while a third time-delayed pulse is used to monitor themore » dynamics of the excited state. This manuscript describes such experimental facilities, showing the preliminary results of the commissioning of the EIS-TIMER beamline, and discusses original experimental strategies being developed to study the dynamics of matter at the fs–nm time–length scales. In the near future such experimental tools will allow more sophisticated FEL-based FWM applications, that also include the use of multiple and multi-color FEL pulses.« less

Experimental setups for FEL-based four-wave mixing experiments at FERMI

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bencivenga, Filippo; Zangrando, Marco; Svetina, Cristian

The recent advent of free-electron laser (FEL) sources is driving the scientific community to extend table-top laser research to shorter wavelengths adding elemental selectivity and chemical state specificity. Both a compact setup (mini-TIMER) and a separate instrument (EIS-TIMER) dedicated to four-wave-mixing (FWM) experiments has been designed and constructed, to be operated as a branch of the Elastic and Inelastic Scattering beamline: EIS. The FWM experiments that are planned at EIS-TIMER are based on the transient grating approach, where two crossed FEL pulses create a controlled modulation of the sample excitations while a third time-delayed pulse is used to monitor themore » dynamics of the excited state. This manuscript describes such experimental facilities, showing the preliminary results of the commissioning of the EIS-TIMER beamline, and discusses original experimental strategies being developed to study the dynamics of matter at the fs–nm time–length scales. In the near future such experimental tools will allow more sophisticated FEL-based FWM applications, that also include the use of multiple and multi-color FEL pulses.« less

Computer Series, 107.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Birk, James P., Ed.

1989-01-01

Presented is a simple laboratory set-up for teaching microprocessor-controlled data acquisition as a part of an instrumental analysis course. Discussed are the experimental set-up, experimental procedures, and technical considerations for this technique. (CW)

Experimental system design for the integration of trapped-ion and superconducting qubit systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Motte, D.; Grounds, A. R.; Rehák, M.; Rodriguez Blanco, A.; Lekitsch, B.; Giri, G. S.; Neilinger, P.; Oelsner, G.; Il'ichev, E.; Grajcar, M.; Hensinger, W. K.

2016-12-01

We present a design for the experimental integration of ion trapping and superconducting qubit systems as a step towards the realization of a quantum hybrid system. The scheme addresses two key difficulties in realizing such a system: a combined microfabricated ion trap and superconducting qubit architecture, and the experimental infrastructure to facilitate both technologies. Developing upon work by Kielpinski et al. (Phys Rev Lett 108(13):130504, 2012. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.108.130504), we describe the design, simulation and fabrication process for a microfabricated ion trap capable of coupling an ion to a superconducting microwave LC circuit with a coupling strength in the tens of kHz. We also describe existing difficulties in combining the experimental infrastructure of an ion trapping set-up into a dilution refrigerator with superconducting qubits and present solutions that can be immediately implemented using current technology.

Critical Current Test of Liquid Hydrogen Cooled HTC Superconductors under External Magnetic Field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shirai, Yasuyuki; Shiotsu, Masahiro; Tatsumoto, Hideki; Kobayashi, Hiroaki; Naruo, Yoshihiro; Nonaka, Satoshi; Inatani, Yoshifumi

High-Tc (HTC) superconductors including MgB2 will show excellent properties under temperature of Liquid Hydrogen (LH2:20K), which has large latent heat and low viscosity coefficient. In order to design and fabricate the LH2 cooled superconducting energy devices, we must clear the cooling property of LH2 for superconductors, the cooling system and safety design of LH2 cooled superconducting devices and electro-magnetic property evaluation of superconductors (BSCCO, REBCO and MgB2) and their magnets cooled by LH2. As the first step of the study, an experimental setup which can be used for investigating heat transfer characteristics of LH2 in a pool and also in forced flow (circulation loop with a pump), and also for evaluation of electro-magnetic properties of LH2 cooled superconductors under external magnetic field (up to 7 T). In this paper, we will show a short sketch of the experimental set-up, practical experiences in safety operation of liquid hydrogen cooling system and example test results of critical current evaluation of HTC superconductors cooled by LH2.

A New Experimental Design to Study the Kinetics of Solid Dissolution into Liquids at Elevated Temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Huijun; White, Jesse F.; Sichen, Du

2018-04-01

A new method was developed to study the dissolution of a solid cylinder in a liquid under forced convection at elevated temperature. In the new design, a rotating cylinder was placed concentrically in a crucible fabricated by boring four holes into a blank material for creating an internal volume with a quatrefoil profile. A strong flow in the radial direction in the liquid was created, which was evidently shown by computational fluid dynamic (CFD) calculations and experiments at both room temperature and elevated temperature. The new setup was able to freeze the sample as it was at experimental temperature, particularly the interface between the solid and the liquid. This freezing was necessary to obtain reliable information for understanding the reaction mechanism. This was exemplified by the study of dissolution of a refractory in liquid slag. The absence of flow in the radial direction in the traditional setup using a symmetrical cylinder was also discussed. The differences in the findings by past investigators using the symmetrical cylinder are most likely due to the extent of misalignment of the cylinder in the containment vessel.

Intergration of system identification and robust controller designs for flexible structures in space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Juang, Jer-Nan; Lew, Jiann-Shiun

1990-01-01

An approach is developed using experimental data to identify a reduced-order model and its model error for a robust controller design. There are three steps involved in the approach. First, an approximately balanced model is identified using the Eigensystem Realization Algorithm, which is an identification algorithm. Second, the model error is calculated and described in frequency domain in terms of the H(infinity) norm. Third, a pole placement technique in combination with a H(infinity) control method is applied to design a controller for the considered system. A set experimental data from an existing setup, namely the Mini-Mast system, is used to illustrate and verify the approach.

The virtual slice setup.

PubMed

Lytton, William W; Neymotin, Samuel A; Hines, Michael L

2008-06-30

In an effort to design a simulation environment that is more similar to that of neurophysiology, we introduce a virtual slice setup in the NEURON simulator. The virtual slice setup runs continuously and permits parameter changes, including changes to synaptic weights and time course and to intrinsic cell properties. The virtual slice setup permits shocks to be applied at chosen locations and activity to be sampled intra- or extracellularly from chosen locations. By default, a summed population display is shown during a run to indicate the level of activity and no states are saved. Simulations can run for hours of model time, therefore it is not practical to save all of the state variables. These, in any case, are primarily of interest at discrete times when experiments are being run: the simulation can be stopped momentarily at such times to save activity patterns. The virtual slice setup maintains an automated notebook showing shocks and parameter changes as well as user comments. We demonstrate how interaction with a continuously running simulation encourages experimental prototyping and can suggest additional dynamical features such as ligand wash-in and wash-out-alternatives to typical instantaneous parameter change. The virtual slice setup currently uses event-driven cells and runs at approximately 2 min/h on a laptop.

ANIMAL COGNITION. Comment on "Number-space mapping in the newborn chick resembles humans' mental number line".

PubMed

Mangalam, Madhur; Karve, Shraddha Madhav

2015-06-26

Rugani et al. (Reports, 30 January 3015, p. 534) tested 3-day-old domestic chicks using an innovative experimental setup and demonstrate the presence of the mental number line. We raise concerns regarding this conclusion by highlighting the possible loopholes in the experimental design and the data analysis procedures. We further suggest auxiliary experiments that can substantiate the authors' claim. Copyright © 2015, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Experimental verification of PSM polarimetry: monitoring polarization at 193nm high-NA with phase shift masks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McIntyre, Gregory; Neureuther, Andrew; Slonaker, Steve; Vellanki, Venu; Reynolds, Patrick

2006-03-01

The initial experimental verification of a polarization monitoring technique is presented. A series of phase shifting mask patterns produce polarization dependent signals in photoresist and are capable of monitoring the Stokes parameters of any arbitrary illumination scheme. Experiments on two test reticles have been conducted. The first reticle consisted of a series of radial phase gratings (RPG) and employed special apertures to select particular illumination angles. Measurement sensitivities of about 0.3 percent of the clear field per percent change in polarization state were observed. The second test reticle employed the more sensitive proximity effect polarization analyzers (PEPA), a more robust experimental setup, and a backside pinhole layer for illumination angle selection and to enable characterization of the full illuminator. Despite an initial complication with the backside pinhole alignment, the results correlate with theory. Theory suggests that, once the pinhole alignment is corrected in the near future, the second reticle should achieve a measurement sensitivity of about 1 percent of the clear field per percent change in polarization state. This corresponds to a measurement of the Stokes parameters after test mask calibration, to within about 0.02 to 0.03. Various potential improvements to the design, fabrication of the mask, and experimental setup are discussed. Additionally, to decrease measurement time, a design modification and double exposure technique is proposed to enable electrical detection of the measurement signal.

A catheter friction tester using balance sensor: Combined evaluation of the effects of mechanical properties of tubing materials and surface coatings.

PubMed

Røn, Troels; Jacobsen, Kristina Pilgaard; Lee, Seunghwan

2018-04-24

In this study, we introduce a new experimental approach to characterize the forces emerging from simulated catherization. This setup allows for a linear translation of urinary catheters in vertical direction as controlled by an actuator. By employing silicone-based elastomer with a duct of comparable diameter with catheters as urethra model, sliding contacts during the translation of catheters along the duct is generated. A most unique design and operation feature of this setup is that a digital balance was employed as the sensor to detect emerging forces from simulated catherization. Moreover, the possibility to give a variation in environment (ambient air vs. water), clearance, elasticity, and curvature of silicone-based urethra model allows for the detection of forces arising from diverse simulated catherization conditions. Two types of commercially available catheters varying in tubing materials and surface coatings were tested together with their respective uncoated catheter tubing. The first set of testing on the catheter samples showed that this setup can probe the combined effect from flexural strain of bulk tubing materials and slipperiness of surface coatings, both of which are expected to affect the comfort and smooth gliding in clinical catherization. We argue that this new experimental setup can provide unique and valuable information in preclinical friction testing of urinary catheters. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Engineering platform and experimental protocol for design and evaluation of a neurally-controlled powered transfemoral prosthesis.

PubMed

Zhang, Fan; Liu, Ming; Harper, Stephen; Lee, Michael; Huang, He

2014-07-22

To enable intuitive operation of powered artificial legs, an interface between user and prosthesis that can recognize the user's movement intent is desired. A novel neural-machine interface (NMI) based on neuromuscular-mechanical fusion developed in our previous study has demonstrated a great potential to accurately identify the intended movement of transfemoral amputees. However, this interface has not yet been integrated with a powered prosthetic leg for true neural control. This study aimed to report (1) a flexible platform to implement and optimize neural control of powered lower limb prosthesis and (2) an experimental setup and protocol to evaluate neural prosthesis control on patients with lower limb amputations. First a platform based on a PC and a visual programming environment were developed to implement the prosthesis control algorithms, including NMI training algorithm, NMI online testing algorithm, and intrinsic control algorithm. To demonstrate the function of this platform, in this study the NMI based on neuromuscular-mechanical fusion was hierarchically integrated with intrinsic control of a prototypical transfemoral prosthesis. One patient with a unilateral transfemoral amputation was recruited to evaluate our implemented neural controller when performing activities, such as standing, level-ground walking, ramp ascent, and ramp descent continuously in the laboratory. A novel experimental setup and protocol were developed in order to test the new prosthesis control safely and efficiently. The presented proof-of-concept platform and experimental setup and protocol could aid the future development and application of neurally-controlled powered artificial legs.

Design, Prototyping and Control of a Flexible Cystoscope for Biomedical Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sozer, Canberk; Ghorbani, Morteza; Alcan, Gokhan; Uvet, Huseyin; Unel, Mustafa; Kosar, Ali

2017-07-01

Kidney stone and prostate hyperplasia are very common urogenital diseases all over the world. To treat these diseases, one of the ESWL (Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy), PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy), cystoscopes or open surgery techniques can be used. Cystoscopes named devices are used for in-vivo intervention. A flexible or rigid cystoscope device is inserted into human body and operates on interested area. In this study, a flexible cystoscope prototype has been developed. The prototype is able to bend up to ±40°in X and Y axes, has a hydrodynamic cavitation probe for rounding sharp edges of kidney stone or resection of the filled prostate with hydrodynamic cavitation method and contains a waterproof medical camera to give visual feedback to the operator. The operator steers the flexible end-effector via joystick toward target region. This paper presents design, manufacturing, control and experimental setup of the tendon driven flexible cystoscope prototype. The prototype is 10 mm in outer diameter, 70 mm in flexible part only and 120 mm in total length with flexible part and rigid tube. The experimental results show that the prototype bending mechanism, control system, manufactured prototype parts and experimental setup function properly. A small piece of real kidney stone was broken in targeted area.

Scintillator Detector Development at Central Michigan University

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McClain, David; Estrade, Alfredo; Neupane, Shree

2017-09-01

Experimental nuclear physics relies both on the accuracy and precision of the instruments for radiation detection used in experimental setups. At Central Michigan University we have setup a lab to work with scintillator detectors for radioactive ion beam experiments, using a Picosecond Laser and radioactive sources for testing. We have tested the resolution for prototypes of large area scintillators that could be used for fast timing measurements in the focal plane of spectrometers, such as the future High Rigidity Spectrometer at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB). We measured the resolution as a function of the length of the detector, and also the position of the beam along the scintillator. We have also designed a scintillating detector to veto light ion background in beta-decay experiments with the Advanced Implantation Detector Array (AIDA) at RIKEN in Japan. We tested different configurations of Silicon Photomultipliers and scintillating fiber optics to find the best detection efficiency.

Digital image compression for a 2f multiplexing optical setup

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vargas, J.; Amaya, D.; Rueda, E.

2016-07-01

In this work a virtual 2f multiplexing system was implemented in combination with digital image compression techniques and redundant information elimination. Depending on the image type to be multiplexed, a memory-usage saving of as much as 99% was obtained. The feasibility of the system was tested using three types of images, binary characters, QR codes, and grey level images. A multiplexing step was implemented digitally, while a demultiplexing step was implemented in a virtual 2f optical setup following real experimental parameters. To avoid cross-talk noise, each image was codified with a specially designed phase diffraction carrier that would allow the separation and relocation of the multiplexed images on the observation plane by simple light propagation. A description of the system is presented together with simulations that corroborate the method. The present work may allow future experimental implementations that will make use of all the parallel processing capabilities of optical systems.

Hawking radiation in an electromagnetic waveguide?

PubMed

Schützhold, Ralf; Unruh, William G

2005-07-15

It is demonstrated that the propagation of electromagnetic waves in an appropriately designed waveguide is (for large wavelengths) analogous to that within a curved space-time--such as around a black hole. As electromagnetic radiation (e.g., microwaves) can be controlled, amplified, and detected (with present-day technology) much easier than sound, for example, we propose a setup for the experimental verification of the Hawking effect. Apart from experimentally testing this striking prediction, this would facilitate the investigation of the trans-Planckian problem.

Concept of multiple-cell cavity for axion dark matter search

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeong, Junu; Youn, SungWoo; Ahn, Saebyeok; Kim, Jihn E.; Semertzidis, Yannis K.

2018-02-01

In cavity-based axion dark matter search experiments exploring high mass regions, multiple-cavity design is under consideration as a method to increase the detection volume within a given magnet bore. We introduce a new idea, referred to as a multiple-cell cavity, which provides various benefits including a larger detection volume, simpler experimental setup, and easier phase-matching mechanism. We present the characteristics of this concept and demonstrate the experimental feasibility with an example of a double-cell cavity.

Adaptive Multi-Layer LMS Controller Design and Application to Active Vibration Suppression on a Truss and Proposed Impact Analysis Technique

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-06-01

Setup and Initiation ........................................................ 83 2. Simulation 1 (19 Hz, Y-axis of Node 18, Piezo #2...175 INITIAL DISTRIBUTION LIST ................................................................................... 187 ix...system for the sake of testing and simplicity. The Adaptive Multi-Layered LMS Controller was developed one piece at a time. After initial experimental

TU-EF-304-09: Quantifying the Biological Effects of Therapeutic Protons by LET Spectrum Analysis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Guan, F; Bronk, L; Kerr, M

2015-06-15

Purpose: To correlate in vitro cell kill with linear energy transfer (LET) spectra using Monte Carlo simulations and knowledge obtained from previous high-throughput in vitro proton relative biological effectiveness (RBE) measurements. Methods: The Monte Carlo simulation toolkit Geant4 was used to design the experimental setups and perform the dose, dose-averaged LET, and LET spectra calculations. The clonogenic assay was performed using the H460 lung cancer cell line in standard 6-well plates. Using two different experimental setups, the same dose and dose-averaged LET (12.6 keV/µm) was delivered to the cell layer; however, each respective energy or LET spectrum was different. Wemore » quantified the dose contributions from high-LET (≥10 keV/µm, threshold determined by previous RBE measurements) events in the LET spectra separately for these two setups as 39% and 53%. 8 dose levels with 1 Gy increments were delivered. The photon reference irradiation was performed using 6 MV x-rays from a LINAC. Results: The survival curves showed that both proton irradiations demonstrated an increased RBE compared to the reference photon irradiation. Within the proton-irradiated cells, the setup with 53% dose contribution from high-LET events exhibited the higher biological effectiveness. Conclusion: The experimental results indicate that the dose-averaged LET may not be an appropriate indicator to quantify the biological effects of protons when the LET spectrum is broad enough to contain both low- and high-LET events. Incorporating the LET spectrum distribution into robust intensity-modulated proton therapy optimization planning may provide more accurate biological dose distribution than using the dose-averaged LET. NIH Program Project Grant 2U19CA021239-35.« less

Determination of the magnetocaloric entropy change by field sweep using a heat flux setup

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Monteiro, J. C. B., E-mail: jolmiui@gmail.com; Reis, R. D. dos; Mansanares, A. M.

2014-08-18

We report on a simple setup using a heat flux sensor adapted to a Quantum Design Physical Property Measurement System to determine the magnetocaloric entropy change (ΔS). The major differences for the existing setups are the simplicity of this assembly and the ease to obtain the isothermal entropy change either by a field sweep or a temperature sweep process. We discuss the use of these two processes applied to Gd and Gd{sub 5}Ge{sub 2}Si{sub 2} samples. The results are compared to the temperature sweep measurements and they show the advantages of this setup and of the field sweep procedure. Wemore » found a significant reduction of ΔS and on the refrigerating cooling power (RCP) at low field changes in a field sweep process when the sample is not driven to the same initial state for each temperature. We show that the field sweep process without any measuring protocol is the only correct way to experimentally determine ΔS and RCP for a practical regenerative refrigerator.« less

A novel setup for femtosecond pump-repump-probe IR spectroscopy with few cycle CEP stable pulses.

PubMed

Bradler, Maximilian; Werhahn, Jasper C; Hutzler, Daniel; Fuhrmann, Simon; Heider, Rupert; Riedle, Eberhard; Iglev, Hristo; Kienberger, Reinhard

2013-08-26

We present a three-color mid-IR setup for vibrational pump-repump-probe experiments with a temporal resolution well below 100 fs and a freely selectable spectral resolution of 20 to 360 cm(-1) for the pump and repump. The usable probe range without optical realignment is 900 cm(-1). The experimental design employed is greatly simplified compared to the widely used setups, highly robust and includes a novel means for generation of tunable few-cycle pulses with stable carrier-envelope phase. A Ti:sapphire pump system operating with 1 kHz and a modest 150 fs pulse duration supplies the total pump energy of just 0.6 mJ. The good signal-to-noise ratio of the setup allows the determination of spectrally resolved transient probe changes smaller than 6·10(-5) OD at 130 time delays in just 45 minutes. The performance of the spectrometer is demonstrated with transient IR spectra and decay curves of HDO molecules in lithium nitrate trihydrate and ice and a first all MIR pump-repump-probe measurement.

New experimental methodology, setup and LabView program for accurate absolute thermoelectric power and electrical resistivity measurements between 25 and 1600 K: application to pure copper, platinum, tungsten, and nickel at very high temperatures.

PubMed

Abadlia, L; Gasser, F; Khalouk, K; Mayoufi, M; Gasser, J G

2014-09-01

In this paper we describe an experimental setup designed to measure simultaneously and very accurately the resistivity and the absolute thermoelectric power, also called absolute thermopower or absolute Seebeck coefficient, of solid and liquid conductors/semiconductors over a wide range of temperatures (room temperature to 1600 K in present work). A careful analysis of the existing experimental data allowed us to extend the absolute thermoelectric power scale of platinum to the range 0-1800 K with two new polynomial expressions. The experimental device is controlled by a LabView program. A detailed description of the accurate dynamic measurement methodology is given in this paper. We measure the absolute thermoelectric power and the electrical resistivity and deduce with a good accuracy the thermal conductivity using the relations between the three electronic transport coefficients, going beyond the classical Wiedemann-Franz law. We use this experimental setup and methodology to give new very accurate results for pure copper, platinum, and nickel especially at very high temperatures. But resistivity and absolute thermopower measurement can be more than an objective in itself. Resistivity characterizes the bulk of a material while absolute thermoelectric power characterizes the material at the point where the electrical contact is established with a couple of metallic elements (forming a thermocouple). In a forthcoming paper we will show that the measurement of resistivity and absolute thermoelectric power characterizes advantageously the (change of) phase, probably as well as DSC (if not better), since the change of phases can be easily followed during several hours/days at constant temperature.

New experimental methodology, setup and LabView program for accurate absolute thermoelectric power and electrical resistivity measurements between 25 and 1600 K: Application to pure copper, platinum, tungsten, and nickel at very high temperatures

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Abadlia, L.; Mayoufi, M.; Gasser, F.

2014-09-15

In this paper we describe an experimental setup designed to measure simultaneously and very accurately the resistivity and the absolute thermoelectric power, also called absolute thermopower or absolute Seebeck coefficient, of solid and liquid conductors/semiconductors over a wide range of temperatures (room temperature to 1600 K in present work). A careful analysis of the existing experimental data allowed us to extend the absolute thermoelectric power scale of platinum to the range 0-1800 K with two new polynomial expressions. The experimental device is controlled by a LabView program. A detailed description of the accurate dynamic measurement methodology is given in thismore » paper. We measure the absolute thermoelectric power and the electrical resistivity and deduce with a good accuracy the thermal conductivity using the relations between the three electronic transport coefficients, going beyond the classical Wiedemann-Franz law. We use this experimental setup and methodology to give new very accurate results for pure copper, platinum, and nickel especially at very high temperatures. But resistivity and absolute thermopower measurement can be more than an objective in itself. Resistivity characterizes the bulk of a material while absolute thermoelectric power characterizes the material at the point where the electrical contact is established with a couple of metallic elements (forming a thermocouple). In a forthcoming paper we will show that the measurement of resistivity and absolute thermoelectric power characterizes advantageously the (change of) phase, probably as well as DSC (if not better), since the change of phases can be easily followed during several hours/days at constant temperature.« less

Non-destructive phase and intensity distributed measurements of the nonlinear stage of modulation instability in optical fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mussot, Arnaud; Naveau, Corentin; Szriftgiser, Pascal; Copie, François; Kudlinski, Alexandre; Conforti, Matteo; Trillo, Stefano

2018-02-01

We report a novel experimental setup to perform distributed characterization in intensity and phase of the nonlinear stage of modulation instability by means of a non-invasive experimental setup : a heterodyne time domain reflectometer.

Investigation of the flow turning loss in unstable solid propellant rocket motors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matta, Lawrence Mark

The goal of this study was to improve the understanding of the flow turning loss, which contributes to the damping of axial acoustic instabilities in solid propellant rocket motors. This understanding is needed to develop practical methods for designing motors that do not exhibit such instabilities. The flow turning loss results from the interaction of the flow of combustion products leaving the surface of the propellant with the acoustic field in an unstable motor. While state of the art solid rocket stability models generally account for the flow turning loss, its magnitude and characteristics have never been fully investigated. This thesis describes a combined theoretical, numerical, and experimental investigation of the flow turning loss and its dependence upon various motor design and operating parameters. First, a one dimensional acoustic stability equation that verifies the existence of the flow turning loss was derived for a chamber with constant mean pressure and temperature. The theoretical development was then extended to include the effects of mean temperature gradients to accommodate combustion systems in which mean temperature gradients and heat losses are significant. These analyses provided the background and expressions necessary to guide an experimental study. The relevant equations were then solved for the developed experimental setup to predict the behavior of the flow turning loss and the other terms of the developed acoustic stability equation. This was followed by and experimental study in which the flow turning region of an unstable solid propellant rocket motor was simulated. The setup was used, with and without combustion, to determine the dependence of the flow turning loss upon operating conditions. These studies showed that the flow turning loss strongly depends upon the gas velocity at the propellant surface and the location of the flow turning region relative to the standing acoustic wave. The flow turning loss measured in the experiment was found to be small relative to other mechanisms. This, however, was characteristic of the experimental setup and is not representative of actual rocket motors, in which the flow turning loss is often a significant part of the overall stability.

Pure moment testing for spinal biomechanics applications: Fixed versus sliding ring cable-driven test designs.

PubMed

Eguizabal, Johnny; Tufaga, Michael; Scheer, Justin K; Ames, Christopher; Lotz, Jeffrey C; Buckley, Jenni M

2010-05-07

In vitro multi-axial bending testing using pure moment loading conditions has become the standard in evaluating the effects of different types of surgical intervention on spinal kinematics. Simple, cable-driven experimental set-ups have been widely adopted because they require little infrastructure. Traditionally, "fixed ring" cable-driven experimental designs have been used; however, there have been concerns with the validity of this set-up in applying pure moment loading. This study involved directly comparing the loading state induced by a traditional "fixed ring" apparatus versus a novel "sliding ring" approach. Flexion-extension bending was performed on an artificial spine model and a single cadaveric test specimen, and the applied loading conditions to the specimen were measured with an in-line multiaxial load cell. The results showed that the fixed ring system applies flexion-extension moments that are 50-60% less than the intended values. This design also imposes non-trivial anterior-posterior shear forces, and non-uniform loading conditions were induced along the length of the specimen. The results of this study indicate that fixed ring systems have the potential to deviate from a pure moment loading state and that our novel sliding ring modification corrects this error in the original test design. This suggests that the proposed sliding ring design should be used for future in vitro spine biomechanics studies involving a cable-driven pure moment apparatus. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Rotational Viscometers--A Subject for Student Projects

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kraftmakher, Yaakov

2010-01-01

Three variants of the rotational viscometer employing a dc motor are considered. The viscometers are highly suitable for liquids of high viscosity, such as glycerol or oils (that is, for [eta] in the range 10-1000 mPa s). The set-ups are very simple and can serve as a first step to designing devices that are more complicated. Experimentation with…

Design of an experimental apparatus for measurement of the surface tension of metastable fluids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vinš, V.; Hrubý, J.; Hykl, J.; Blaha, J.; Šmíd, B.

2013-04-01

A unique experimental apparatus for measurement of the surface tension of aqueous mixtures has been designed, manufactured, and tested in our laboratory. The novelty of the setup is that it allows measurement of surface tension by two different methods: a modified capillary elevation method in a long vertical capillary tube and a method inspired by the approach of Hacker (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, Technical Note 2510, 1-20, 1951), i.e. in a short horizontal capillary tube. Functionality of all main components of the apparatus, e.g., glass chamber with the capillary tube, temperature control unit consisting of two thermostatic baths with special valves for rapid temperature jumps, helium distribution setup allowing pressure variation above the liquid meniscus inside the capillary tube, has been successfully tested. Preliminary results for the surface tension of the stable and metastable supercooled water measured by the capillary elevation method at atmospheric pressure are provided. The surface tension of water measured at temperatures between +26 °C and -11 °C is in good agreement with the extrapolated IAPWS correlation (IAPWS Release on Surface Tension of Ordinary Water Substance, September 1994); however it disagrees with data by Hacker.

Development of a sensitive setup for laser spectroscopy studies of very exotic calcium isotopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garcia Ruiz, R. F.; Gorges, C.; Bissell, M.; Blaum, K.; Gins, W.; Heylen, H.; Koenig, K.; Kaufmann, S.; Kowalska, M.; Krämer, J.; Lievens, P.; Malbrunot-Ettenauer, S.; Neugart, R.; Neyens, G.; Nörtershäuser, W.; Yordanov, D. T.; Yang, X. F.

2017-04-01

An experimental setup for sensitive high-resolution measurements of hyperfine structure spectra of exotic calcium isotopes has been developed and commissioned at the COLLAPS beam line at ISOLDE, CERN. The technique is based on the radioactive detection of decaying isotopes after optical pumping and state selective neutralization (ROC) (Vermeeren et al 1992 Phys. Rev. Lett. 68 1679). The improvements and developments necessary to extend the applicability of the experimental technique to calcium isotopes produced at rates as low as few ions s-1 are discussed. Numerical calculations of laser-ion interaction and ion-beam simulations were explored to obtain the optimum performance of the experimental setup. Among the implemented features are a multi-step optical pumping region for sensitive measurements of isotopes with hyperfine splitting, a high-voltage platform for adequate control of low-energy ion beams and simultaneous β-detection of neutralized and remaining ions. The commissioning of the experimental setup, and the first online results on neutron-rich calcium isotopes are presented.

Design considerations for the use of laser-plasma accelerators for advanced space radiation studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Königstein, T.; Karger, O.; Pretzler, G.; Rosenzweig, J. B.; Hidding, B.; Hidding

2012-08-01

We present design considerations for the use of laser-plasma accelerators for mimicking space radiation and testing space-grade electronics. This novel application takes advantage of the inherent ability of laser-plasma accelerators to produce particle beams with exponential energy distribution, which is a characteristic shared with the hazardous relativistic electron flux present in the radiation belts of planets such as Earth, Saturn and Jupiter. Fundamental issues regarding laser-plasma interaction parameters, beam propagation, flux development, and experimental setup are discussed.

Experiments for Ka-band mobile applications: The ACTS mobile terminal

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Estabrook, Polly; Dessouky, Khaled; Jedrey, Thomas

1990-01-01

To explore the potential of Ka-band to support mobile satellite services, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has initiated the design and development of a Ka-band land-mobile terminal to be used with the Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS). The planned experimental setup with ACTS is described. Brief functional descriptions of the mobile and fixed terminals are provided. The inputs required from the propagation community to support the design activities and the planned experiments are also discussed.

Transition Fracture Toughness Characterization of Eurofer 97 Steel using Pre-Cracked Miniature Multi-notch Bend Bar Specimens

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, Xiang; Sokolov, Mikhail A.; Linton, Kory D.

In this report, we present the feasibility study of using pre-cracked miniature multi-notch bend bar specimens (M4CVN) with a dimension of 45mm (length) x 3.3mm (width) x 1.65mm (thickness) to characterize the transition fracture toughness of Eurofer97 based on the ASTM E1921 Master Curve method. From literature survey results, we did not find any obvious specimen size effects on the measured fracture toughness of unirradiated Eurofer97. Nonetheless, in order to exclude the specimen size effect on the measured fracture toughness of neutron irradiated Eurofer97, comparison of results obtained from larger size specimens with those from smaller size specimens after neutronmore » irradiation is necessary, which is not practical and can be formidably expensive. However, limited literature results indicate that the transition fracture toughness of Eurofer97 obtained from different specimen sizes and geometries followed the similar irradiation embrittlement trend. We then described the newly designed experimental setup to be used for testing neutron irradiated Eurofer97 pre-cracked M4CVN bend bars in the hot cell. We recently used the same setup for testing neutron irradiated F82H pre-cracked miniature multi-notch bend bars with great success. Considering the similarity in materials, specimen types, and the nature of tests between Eurofer97 and F82H, we believe the newly designed experimental setup can be used successfully in fracture toughness testing of Eurofer97 pre-cracked M4CVN specimens.« less

Design and development of radioactive xenon gas purification and analysis system based on molecular sieves.

PubMed

Sabzian, M; Nasrabadi, M N; Haji-Hosseini, M

2018-10-01

The dynamic adsorption of xenon on molecular sieve packed columns was investigated. The modified Wheeler-Jonas equation was used to describe adsorption parameters such as adsorption capacity and adsorption rate coefficient. Different experimental conditions were accomplished to study their effects and to touch appropriate adsorbing circumstances. Respectable consistency was reached between experimental and modeled values. A purification and analysis setup was developed for radioactive xenon gas determination. Standard sample analysis results approved acceptable quantification accuracy. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Experimental verification of ‘waveguide’ plasmonics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prudêncio, Filipa R.; Costa, Jorge R.; Fernandes, Carlos A.; Engheta, Nader; Silveirinha, Mário G.

2017-12-01

Surface plasmons polaritons are collective excitations of an electron gas that occur at an interface between negative-ɛ and positive-ɛ media. Here, we report the experimental observation of such surface waves using simple waveguide metamaterials filled only with available positive-ɛ media at microwave frequencies. In contrast to optical designs, in our setup the propagation length of the surface plasmons can be rather long as low loss conventional dielectrics are chosen to avoid typical losses from negative-ɛ media. Plasmonic phenomena have potential applications in enhancing light-matter interactions, implementing nanoscale photonic circuits and integrated photonics.

Flying qualities criteria for GA single pilot IFR operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bar-Gill, A.

1982-01-01

The flying qualities criteria in general aviation (GA) to decrease accidents are discussed. The following in-flight research is discussed: (1) identification of key aerodynamic configurations; (2) implementation of an in-flight simulator; (3) mission matrix design; (4) experimental systems; (5) data reduction; (6) optimal flight path reconstruction. Some of the accomplished work is reported: an integrated flight testing and flight path reconstruction methodology was developd, high accuracy in trajectory estimation was achieved with an experimental setup, and a part of the flight test series was flown.

WE-H-BRA-05: Investigation of LET Spectral Dependence of the Biological Effects of Therapeutic Protons

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Guan, F; Bronk, L; Kerr, M

Purpose: To investigate the dependence of biologic effect (BE) of therapeutic protons on LET spectra by comparing BEs with equal dose-averaged LET (LETd) derived from different LET spectra using high-throughput in vitro clonogenic survival assays. Methods: We used Geant4 to design the relevant experimental setups and perform the dose, LETd, and LET spectra calculations for spot-scanning protons. The clonogenic assay was performed using the H460 lung cancer cell line cultured in 96-well plates. In the first experimental setup (S1), cells were irradiated using 127.4 MeV protons with a 93.22 mm Lucite buildup resulting in a LETd value of 3.4 keV/µmmore » in the cell layer. In the second experimental setup (S2), cells were irradiated by a combination of 127.4 MeV and 136.4 MeV protons with a 96.61 mm Lucite buildup. The LETd values in the cell layer were 11.4 keV/µm and 1.5 keV/µm respectively, but an average LETd of 3.4 keV/µm was obtained by adjusting the relative fluence of each beam. Ten discrete dose levels with 0.5 Gy increments were delivered. Results: In the two setups, the energies or LET spectra were different but resulted in identical LETd values. We quantified the dose contributions from high-LET (≥10 keV/µm, threshold determined by previous experiments) events in the LET spectra separately for these two setups as 3.2% and 10.5%. The biologic effects at each identical dose level yielded statistically significant different survival curves (extra sum-of-squares F-test, P<0.0001). The second setup with a higher contribution from high-LET events exhibited the higher biologic effect with a dose enhancement factor of 1.17±0.03 at 0.10 surviving fraction. Conclusion: The dose-averaged LET may not be an accurate indicator of the biological effects of protons. Detailed LET spectra may need to be considered explicitly to accurately quantify the biologic effects of protons. Funding Support: U19 CA021239-35, R21 CA187484-01 and MDACC-IRG.« less

A Simple Experimental Setup to Clearly Show that Light Does Not Recombine After Passing Through Two Prisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garcia-Molina, Rafael; del Mazo, Alejandro; Velasco, Santiago

2018-01-01

We present a simple and cheap experimental setup that clearly shows how the colors of the white light spectrum after passing a prism do not recombine when emerging from an identical second prism, as it is still found in many references.

A Simple Experimental Setup to Clearly Show That Light Does Not Recombine after Passing through Two Prisms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Garcia-Molina, Rafael; del Mazo, Alejandro; Velasco, Santiago

2018-01-01

We present a simple and cheap experimental setup that clearly shows how the colors of the white light spectrum after passing a prism do not recombine when emerging from an identical second prism, as it is still found in many references.

Huygens' inspired multi-pendulum setups: Experiments and stability analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoogeboom, F. N.; Pogromsky, A. Y.; Nijmeijer, H.

2016-11-01

This paper examines synchronization of a set of metronomes placed on a lightweight foam platform. Two configurations of the set of metronomes are considered: a row setup containing one-dimensional coupling and a cross setup containing two-dimensional coupling. Depending on the configuration and coupling between the metronomes, i.e., the platform parameters, in- and/or anti-phase synchronized behavior is observed in the experiments. To explain this behavior, mathematical models of a metronome and experimental setups have been derived and used in a local stability analysis. It is numerically and experimentally demonstrated that varying the coupling parameters for both configurations has a significant influence on the stability of the synchronized solutions.

Learning from Demonstration: Generalization via Task Segmentation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ettehadi, N.; Manaffam, S.; Behal, A.

2017-10-01

In this paper, a motion segmentation algorithm design is presented with the goal of segmenting a learned trajectory from demonstration such that each segment is locally maximally different from its neighbors. This segmentation is then exploited to appropriately scale (dilate/squeeze and/or rotate) a nominal trajectory learned from a few demonstrations on a fixed experimental setup such that it is applicable to different experimental settings without expanding the dataset and/or retraining the robot. The algorithm is computationally efficient in the sense that it allows facile transition between different environments. Experimental results using the Baxter robotic platform showcase the ability of the algorithm to accurately transfer a feeding task.

Experimental Investigation of Fibre Reinforced Composite Materials Under Impact Load

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koppula, Sravani; Kaviti, Ajay kumar; Namala, Kiran kumar

2018-03-01

Composite materials are extensively used in various engineering applications. They have very high flexibility design which allows prescribe tailoring of material properties by lamination of composite fibres with reinforcement of resin to it. Complex failure condition prevail in the composite materials under the action of impact loads, major modes of failure in composite may include matrix cracking, fibre matrix, fibre breakage, de-bonding or de- lamination between composite plies. This paper describes the mechanical properties of glass fibre reinforced composite material under impact loading conditions through experimental setup. Experimental tests are performed according to ASTM standards using impact testing machines like Charpy test, computerized universal testing machine.

Accelerated Aging Experiments for Capacitor Health Monitoring and Prognostics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kulkarni, Chetan S.; Celaya, Jose Ramon; Biswas, Gautam; Goebel, Kai

2012-01-01

This paper discusses experimental setups for health monitoring and prognostics of electrolytic capacitors under nominal operation and accelerated aging conditions. Electrolytic capacitors have higher failure rates than other components in electronic systems like power drives, power converters etc. Our current work focuses on developing first-principles-based degradation models for electrolytic capacitors under varying electrical and thermal stress conditions. Prognostics and health management for electronic systems aims to predict the onset of faults, study causes for system degradation, and accurately compute remaining useful life. Accelerated life test methods are often used in prognostics research as a way to model multiple causes and assess the effects of the degradation process through time. It also allows for the identification and study of different failure mechanisms and their relationships under different operating conditions. Experiments are designed for aging of the capacitors such that the degradation pattern induced by the aging can be monitored and analyzed. Experimental setups and data collection methods are presented to demonstrate this approach.

Modeling flow for modified concentric cylinder rheometer geometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ekeruche, Karen; Connelly, Kelly; Kavehpour, H. Pirouz

2016-11-01

Rheology experiments on biological fluids can be difficult when samples are limited in volume, sensitive to degradation, and delicate to extract from tissues. A probe-like geometry has been developed to perform shear creep experiments on biological fluids and to use the creep response to characterize fluid material properties. This probe geometry is a modified concentric cylinder setup, where the gap is large and we assume the inner cylinder rotates in an infinite fluid. To validate this assumption we perform shear creep tests with the designed probe on Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids and vary the outer cylinder container diameter. We have also created a numerical model based on the probe geometry setup to compare with experimental results at different outer cylinder diameters. A creep test is modeled by applying rotation to the inner cylinder and solving for the deformation of the fluid throughout the gap. Steady state viscosity values are calculated from creep compliance curves and compared between experimental and numerical results.

Recent progress of the Laser-driven Ion-beam Trace Probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Xiaoyi; Xiao, Chijie; Chen, Yihang; Xu, Tianchao; Yu, Yi; Xu, Min; Wang, Long; Lin, Chen; Wang, Xiaogang

2017-10-01

The Laser-driven Ion-beam Trace Probe (LITP) is a new method to diagnose the poloidal magnetic field and radial electric field in tokamaks. Recently significant progresses have been made as follows. 1) The experimental system has been set up on the PKU Plasma Test (PPT) linear device and begun to validate the principle of LITP, including the ion source, the ion detector and the poloidal magnetic field cable. Preliminary experimental results matched the theoretical prediction well. 2) The reconstruction principle has been improved including the nonlinear effect. 3) Tomography methods have been applied in the reconstruction codes. Now the laser-driven ion-beam accelerator has been setup on the PPT device, and further test of LITP will start soon. After that a prototype of LITP system will be designed and setup on the HL-2A tokamak device. This work was supported by the CHINA MOST under 2012YQ030142, ITER-CHINA program 2015GB120001 and National Natural Science Foundation of China under 11575014 and 11375053.

Adaptive Nulling for the Terrestrial Planet Finder Interferometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peters, Robert D.; Lay, Oliver P.; Jeganathan, Muthu; Hirai, Akiko

2006-01-01

A description of adaptive nulling for Terrestrial Planet Finder Interferometer (TPFI) is presented. The topics include: 1) Nulling in TPF-I; 2) Why Do Adaptive Nulling; 3) Parallel High-Order Compensator Design; 4) Phase and Amplitude Control; 5) Development Activates; 6) Requirements; 7) Simplified Experimental Setup; 8) Intensity Correction; and 9) Intensity Dispersion Stability. A short summary is also given on adaptive nulling for the TPFI.

Volume II: Compendium Abstracts

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-08-01

project developed a fast and simple method of characterization for ceramic , polymer composite, and ceramic -composite materials systems. Current methods...incrementally at 1-inch intervals and displayed as a false-color image map of the sample. This experimental setup can be easily scaled from single ceramic ...low-power, high-force characteristics of lead zirconate titanate ( PZT ) and an offset-beam design to achieve rotational or near-linear translational

23RD International Conference on Phenomena in Ionized Gases, Volume 3

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-12-01

discharges, and high pressure glows; arcs; high frequency discharges; ionospheric magnetospheric, and astrophysical plasmas; plasma diagnostic methods ...kf) in pulse reflectometry. Second, it different frequencies , and an Abel inversion is gives a quantitative model of the behaviour of the wave... design V method in the case of narrow mutual pitch of surface electrodes for high concentration ozone generation. 2. Experimental setup 20 The electrode

Optimizing Mouse Surgery with Online Rectal Temperature Monitoring and Preoperative Heat Supply. Effects on Post-Ischemic Acute Kidney Injury.

PubMed

Marschner, Julian A; Schäfer, Hannah; Holderied, Alexander; Anders, Hans-Joachim

2016-01-01

Body temperature affects outcomes of tissue injury. We hypothesized that online body core temperature recording and selective interventions help to standardize peri-interventional temperature control and the reliability of outcomes in experimental renal ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI). We recorded core temperature in up to seven mice in parallel using a Thermes USB recorder and ret-3-iso rectal probes with three different protocols. Setup A: Heating pad during ischemia time; Setup B: Heating pad from incision to wound closure; Setup C: A ventilated heating chamber before surgery and during ischemia time with surgeries performed on a heating pad. Temperature profile recording displayed significant declines upon installing anesthesia. The profile of the baseline experimental setup A revealed that <1% of the temperature readings were within the target range of 36.5 to 38.5°C. Setup B and C increased the target range readings to 34.6 ± 28.0% and 99.3 ± 1.5%, respectively. Setup C significantly increased S3 tubular necrosis, neutrophil influx, and mRNA expression of kidney injury markers. In addition, using setup C different ischemia times generated a linear correlation with acute tubular necrosis parameters at a low variability, which further correlated with the degree of kidney atrophy 5 weeks after surgery. Changing temperature control setup A to C was equivalent to 10 minutes more ischemia time. We conclude that body temperature drops quickly in mice upon initiating anesthesia. Immediate heat supply, e.g. in a ventilated heating chamber, and online core temperature monitoring can help to standardize and optimize experimental outcomes.

An experimental loop design for the detection of constitutional chromosomal aberrations by array CGH

PubMed Central

2009-01-01

Background Comparative genomic hybridization microarrays for the detection of constitutional chromosomal aberrations is the application of microarray technology coming fastest into routine clinical application. Through genotype-phenotype association, it is also an important technique towards the discovery of disease causing genes and genomewide functional annotation in human. When using a two-channel microarray of genomic DNA probes for array CGH, the basic setup consists in hybridizing a patient against a normal reference sample. Two major disadvantages of this setup are (1) the use of half of the resources to measure a (little informative) reference sample and (2) the possibility that deviating signals are caused by benign copy number variation in the "normal" reference instead of a patient aberration. Instead, we apply an experimental loop design that compares three patients in three hybridizations. Results We develop and compare two statistical methods (linear models of log ratios and mixed models of absolute measurements). In an analysis of 27 patients seen at our genetics center, we observed that the linear models of the log ratios are advantageous over the mixed models of the absolute intensities. Conclusion The loop design and the performance of the statistical analysis contribute to the quick adoption of array CGH as a routine diagnostic tool. They lower the detection limit of mosaicisms and improve the assignment of copy number variation for genetic association studies. PMID:19925645

An experimental loop design for the detection of constitutional chromosomal aberrations by array CGH.

PubMed

Allemeersch, Joke; Van Vooren, Steven; Hannes, Femke; De Moor, Bart; Vermeesch, Joris Robert; Moreau, Yves

2009-11-19

Comparative genomic hybridization microarrays for the detection of constitutional chromosomal aberrations is the application of microarray technology coming fastest into routine clinical application. Through genotype-phenotype association, it is also an important technique towards the discovery of disease causing genes and genomewide functional annotation in human. When using a two-channel microarray of genomic DNA probes for array CGH, the basic setup consists in hybridizing a patient against a normal reference sample. Two major disadvantages of this setup are (1) the use of half of the resources to measure a (little informative) reference sample and (2) the possibility that deviating signals are caused by benign copy number variation in the "normal" reference instead of a patient aberration. Instead, we apply an experimental loop design that compares three patients in three hybridizations. We develop and compare two statistical methods (linear models of log ratios and mixed models of absolute measurements). In an analysis of 27 patients seen at our genetics center, we observed that the linear models of the log ratios are advantageous over the mixed models of the absolute intensities. The loop design and the performance of the statistical analysis contribute to the quick adoption of array CGH as a routine diagnostic tool. They lower the detection limit of mosaicisms and improve the assignment of copy number variation for genetic association studies.

Test and Analysis of a Hyper-X Carbon-Carbon Leading Edge Chine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Russell W.; Sikora, Joseph G.; Lindell, Michael C.

2005-01-01

During parts production for the X43A Mach 10 hypersonic vehicle nondestructive evaluation (NDE) of a leading edge chine detected on imbedded delamination near the lower surface of the part. An ultimate proof test was conducted to verify the ultimate strength of this leading edge chine part. The ultimate proof test setup used a pressure bladder design to impose a uniform distributed pressure field over the bi-planar surface of the chine test article. A detailed description of the chine test article and experimental test setup is presented. Analysis results from a linear status model of the test article are also presented and discussed. Post-test inspection of the specimen revealed no visible failures or areas of delamination.

Beam patterns in an optical parametric oscillator set-up employing walk-off compensating beta barium borate crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaucikas, M.; Warren, M.; Michailovas, A.; Antanavicius, R.; van Thor, J. J.

2013-02-01

This paper describes the investigation of an optical parametric oscillator (OPO) set-up based on two beta barium borate (BBO) crystals, where the interplay between the crystal orientations, cut angles and air dispersion substantially influenced the OPO performance, and especially the angular spectrum of the output beam. Theory suggests that if two BBO crystals are used in this type of design, they should be of different cuts. This paper aims to provide an experimental manifestation of this fact. Furthermore, it has been shown that air dispersion produces similar effects and should be taken into account. An x-ray crystallographic indexing of the crystals was performed as an independent test of the above conclusions.

The experimental set-up of the RIB in-flight facility EXOTIC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pierroutsakou, D.; Boiano, A.; Boiano, C.; Di Meo, P.; La Commara, M.; Manea, C.; Mazzocco, M.; Nicoletto, M.; Parascandolo, C.; Signorini, C.; Soramel, F.; Strano, E.; Toniolo, N.; Torresi, D.; Tortone, G.; Anastasio, A.; Bettini, M.; Cassese, C.; Castellani, L.; Corti, D.; Costa, L.; De Fazio, B.; Galet, G.; Glodariu, T.; Grebosz, J.; Guglielmetti, A.; Molini, P.; Pontoriere, G.; Rocco, R.; Romoli, M.; Roscilli, L.; Sandoli, M.; Stroe, L.; Tessaro, M.; Zatti, P. G.

2016-10-01

We describe the experimental set-up of the Radioactive Ion Beam (RIB) in-flight facility EXOTIC consisting of: (a) two position-sensitive Parallel Plate Avalanche Counters (PPACs), dedicated to the event-by-event tracking of the produced RIBs and to time of flight measurements and (b) the new high-granularity compact telescope array EXPADES (EXotic PArticle DEtection System), designed for nuclear physics and nuclear astrophysics experiments employing low-energy light RIBs. EXPADES consists of eight ΔE -Eres telescopes arranged in a cylindrical configuration around the target. Each telescope is made up of two Double Sided Silicon Strip Detectors (DSSSDs) with a thickness of 40/60 μm and 300 μm for the ΔE and Eres layer, respectively. Additionally, eight ionization chambers were constructed to be used as an alternative ΔE stage or, in conjunction with the entire DSSSD array, to build up more complex triple telescopes. New low-noise multi-channel charge-sensitive preamplifiers and spectroscopy amplifiers, associated with constant fraction discriminators, peak-and-hold and Time to Amplitude Converter circuits were developed for the electronic readout of the ΔE stage. Application Specific Integrated Circuit-based electronics was employed for the treatment of the Eres signals. An 8-channel, 12-bit multi-sampling 50 MHz Analog to Digital Converter, a Trigger Supervisor Board for handling the trigger signals of the whole experimental set-up and an ad hoc data acquisition system were also developed. The performance of the PPACs, EXPADES and of the associated electronics was obtained offline with standard α calibration sources and in-beam by measuring the scattering process for the systems 17O+58Ni and 17O+208Pb at incident energies around their respective Coulomb barriers and, successively, during the first experimental runs with the RIBs of the EXOTIC facility.

Design of a Hydrogen Pulsating Heat Pipe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yumeng; Deng, Haoren; Pfotenhauer, John; Gan, Zhihua

In order to enhance the application of a cryocooler that provides cooling capacity at the cold head location, and effectively spread that cooling over an extended region, one requires an efficient heat transfer method. The pulsating heat pipe affords a highly effective heat transfer component that has been extensively researched at room temperature, but is recently being investigated for cryogenic applications. This paper describes the design. The experimental setup is designed to characterize the thermal performance of the PHP as a function of the applied heat, number of turns, filling ratio, inclination angle, and length of adiabatic section.

NASA supercritical laminar flow control airfoil experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harvey, W. D.

1982-01-01

The design and goals of experimental investigations of supercritical LFC airfoils conducted in the NASA Langley 8-ft Transonic Pressure Tunnel beginning in March 1982 are reviewed. Topics addressed include laminarization aspects; flow-quality requirements; simulation of flight parameters; the setup of screens, honeycomb, and sonic throat; the design cycle; theoretical pressure distributions and shock-free limits; drag divergence and stability analysis; and the LFC suction system. Consideration is given to the LFC airfoil model, the air-flow control system, airfoil-surface instrumentation, liner design and hardware, and test options. Extensive diagrams, drawings, graphs, photographs, and tables of numerical data are provided.

Development of Experimental Setup of Metal Rapid Prototyping Machine using Selective Laser Sintering Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patil, S. N.; Mulay, A. V.; Ahuja, B. B.

2018-04-01

Unlike in the traditional manufacturing processes, additive manufacturing as rapid prototyping, allows designers to produce parts that were previously considered too complex to make economically. The shift is taking place from plastic prototype to fully functional metallic parts by direct deposition of metallic powders as produced parts can be directly used for desired purpose. This work is directed towards the development of experimental setup of metal rapid prototyping machine using selective laser sintering and studies the various parameters, which plays important role in the metal rapid prototyping using SLS technique. The machine structure in mainly divided into three main categories namely, (1) Z-movement of bed and table, (2) X-Y movement arrangement for LASER movements and (3) feeder mechanism. Z-movement of bed is controlled by using lead screw, bevel gear pair and stepper motor, which will maintain the accuracy of layer thickness. X-Y movements are controlled using timing belt and stepper motors for precise movements of LASER source. Feeder mechanism is then developed to control uniformity of layer thickness metal powder. Simultaneously, the study is carried out for selection of material. Various types of metal powders can be used for metal RP as Single metal powder, mixture of two metals powder, and combination of metal and polymer powder. Conclusion leads to use of mixture of two metals powder to minimize the problems such as, balling effect and porosity. Developed System can be validated by conducting various experiments on manufactured part to check mechanical and metallurgical properties. After studying the results of these experiments, various process parameters as LASER properties (as power, speed etc.), and material properties (as grain size and structure etc.) will be optimized. This work is mainly focused on the design and development of cost effective experimental setup of metal rapid prototyping using SLS technique which will gives the feel of metal rapid prototyping process and its important parameters.

An analytical approach to test and design upper limb prosthesis.

PubMed

Veer, Karan

2015-01-01

In this work the signal acquiring technique, the analysis models and the design protocols of the prosthesis are discussed. The different methods to estimate the motion intended by the amputee from surface electromyogram (SEMG) signals based on time and frequency domain parameters are presented. The experiment proposed that the used techniques can help significantly in discriminating the amputee's motions among four independent activities using dual channel set-up. Further, based on experimental results, the design and working of an artificial arm have been covered under two constituents--the electronics design and the mechanical assembly. Finally, the developed hand prosthesis allows the amputated persons to perform daily routine activities easily.

Computational fluid dynamics modeling of laboratory flames and an industrial flare.

PubMed

Singh, Kanwar Devesh; Gangadharan, Preeti; Chen, Daniel H; Lou, Helen H; Li, Xianchang; Richmond, Peyton

2014-11-01

A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methodology for simulating the combustion process has been validated with experimental results. Three different types of experimental setups were used to validate the CFD model. These setups include an industrial-scale flare setups and two lab-scale flames. The CFD study also involved three different fuels: C3H6/CH/Air/N2, C2H4/O2/Ar and CH4/Air. In the first setup, flare efficiency data from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) 2010 field tests were used to validate the CFD model. In the second setup, a McKenna burner with flat flames was simulated. Temperature and mass fractions of important species were compared with the experimental data. Finally, results of an experimental study done at Sandia National Laboratories to generate a lifted jet flame were used for the purpose of validation. The reduced 50 species mechanism, LU 1.1, the realizable k-epsilon turbulence model, and the EDC turbulence-chemistry interaction model were usedfor this work. Flare efficiency, axial profiles of temperature, and mass fractions of various intermediate species obtained in the simulation were compared with experimental data and a good agreement between the profiles was clearly observed. In particular the simulation match with the TCEQ 2010 flare tests has been significantly improved (within 5% of the data) compared to the results reported by Singh et al. in 2012. Validation of the speciated flat flame data supports the view that flares can be a primary source offormaldehyde emission.

Experimental identification of the behaviour of and lateral forces from freely-walking pedestrians on laterally oscillating structures in a virtual reality environment.

PubMed

Bocian, Mateusz; Macdonald, John H G; Burn, Jeremy F; Redmill, David

2015-12-15

Modelling pedestrian loading on lively structures such as bridges remains a challenge. This is because pedestrians have the capacity to interact with vibrating structures which can lead to amplification of the structural response. Current design guidelines are often inaccurate and limiting as they do not sufficiently acknowledge this effect. This originates in scarcity of data on pedestrian behaviour on vibrating ground and uncertainty as to the accuracy of results from previous experimental campaigns aiming to quantify pedestrian behaviour in this case. To this end, this paper presents a novel experimental setup developed to evaluate pedestrian actions on laterally oscillating ground in the laboratory environment while avoiding the implications of artificiality and allowing for unconstrained gait. A biologically-inspired approach was adopted in its development, relying on appreciation of operational complexities of biological systems, in particular their adaptability and control requirements. In determination of pedestrian forces to the structure consideration was given to signal processing issues which have been neglected in past studies. The results from tests conducted on the setup are related to results from previous experimental investigations and outputs of the inverted pendulum pedestrian model for walking on laterally oscillating ground, which is capable of generating self-excited forces.

Investigation of the effects of process and geometrical parameters on formability in tube hydroforming using a modular hydroforming tool

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Joghan, Hamed Dardaei; Staupendahl, Daniel; Hassan, Hamad ul; Henke, Andreas; Keesser, Thorsten; Legat, Francois; Tekkaya, A. Erman

2018-05-01

Tube hydroforming is one of the most important manufacturing processes for the production of exhaust systems. Tube hydroforming allows generating parts with highly complex geometries with the forming accuracies needed in the automotive sector. This is possible due to the form-closed nature of the production process. One of the main cost drivers is tool manufacturing, which is expensive and time consuming, especially when forming large parts. To cope with the design trend of individuality, which is gaining more and more importance and leads to a high number of product variants, a new flexible tool design was developed. The designed tool offers a high flexibility in manufacturing different shapes and geometries of tubes with just local alterations and relocation of tool segments. The tolerancing problems that segmented tools from the state of the art have are overcome by an innovative and flexible die holder design. The break-even point of this initially more expensive tool design is already overcome when forming more than 4 different tube shapes. Together with an additionally designed rotary hydraulic tube feeding system, a highly adaptable forming setup is generated. To investigate the performance of the developed tool setup, a study on geometrical and process parameters during forming of a spherical dome was done. Austenitic stainless steel (grade 1.4301) tube with a diameter of 40 mm and a thickness of 1.5 mm was used for the investigations. The experimental analyses were supported by finite element simulations and statistical analyses. The results show that the flexible tool setup can efficiently be used to analyze the interaction of the inner pressure, friction, and the location of the spherical dome and demonstrate the high influence of the feeding rate on the formed part.

High-resolution continuous flow analysis setup for water isotopic measurement from ice cores using laser spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Emanuelsson, B. D.; Baisden, W. T.; Bertler, N. A. N.; Keller, E. D.; Gkinis, V.

2014-12-01

Here we present an experimental setup for water stable isotopes (δ18O and δD) continuous flow measurements. It is the first continuous flow laser spectroscopy system that is using Off-Axis Integrated Cavity Output Spectroscopy (OA-ICOS; analyzer manufactured by Los Gatos Research - LGR) in combination with an evaporation unit to continuously analyze sample from an ice core. A Water Vapor Isotopic Standard Source (WVISS) calibration unit, manufactured by LGR, was modified to: (1) increase the temporal resolution by reducing the response time (2) enable measurements on several water standards, and (3) to reduce the influence from memory effects. While this setup was designed for the Continuous Flow Analysis (CFA) of ice cores, it can also continuously analyze other liquid or vapor sources. The modified setup provides a shorter response time (~54 and 18 s for 2013 and 2014 setup, respectively) compared to the original WVISS unit (~62 s), which is an improvement in measurement resolution. Another improvement compared to the original WVISS is that the modified setup has a reduced memory effect. Stability tests comparing the modified WVISS and WVISS setups were performed and Allan deviations (σAllan) were calculated to determine precision at different averaging times. For the 2013 modified setup the precision after integration times of 103 s are 0.060 and 0.070‰ for δ18O and δD, respectively. For the WVISS setup the corresponding σAllan values are 0.030, 0.060 and 0.043‰ for δ18O, δD and δ17O, respectively. For the WVISS setup the precision is 0.035, 0.070 and 0.042‰ after 103 s for δ18O, δD and δ17O, respectively. Both the modified setups and WVISS setup are influenced by instrumental drift with δ18O being more drift sensitive than δD. The σAllan values for δ18O of 0.30 and 0.18‰ for the modified (2013) and WVISS setup, respectively after averaging times of 104 s (2.78 h). The Isotopic Water Analyzer (IWA)-modified WVISS setup used during the 2013 Roosevelt Island Climate Evolution (RICE) ice core processing campaign achieved high precision measurements, in particular for δD, with high temporal resolution for the upper part of the core, where a seasonally resolved isotopic signal is preserved.

Measurement of the secondary electron emission from CVD diamond films using phosphor screen detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vaz, R.; May, P. W.; Fox, N. A.; Harwood, C. J.; Chatterjee, V.; Smith, J. A.; Horsfield, C. J.; Lapington, J. S.; Osbourne, S.

2015-03-01

Diamond-based photomultipliers have the potential to provide a significant improvement over existing devices due to diamond's high secondary electron yield and narrow energy distribution of secondary electrons which improves energy resolution creating extremely fast response times. In this paper we describe an experimental apparatus designed to study secondary electron emission from diamond membranes only 400 nm thick, observed in reflection and transmission configurations. The setup consists of a system of calibrated P22 green phosphor screens acting as radiation converters which are used in combination with photomultiplier tubes to acquire secondary emission yield data from the diamond samples. The superior signal voltage sampling of the phosphor screen setup compared with traditional Faraday Cup detection allows the variation in the secondary electron yield across the sample to be visualised, allowing spatial distributions to be obtained. Preliminary reflection and transmission yield data are presented as a function of primary electron energy for selected CVD diamond films and membranes. Reflection data were also obtained from the same sample set using a Faraday Cup detector setup. In general, the curves for secondary electron yield versus primary energy for both measurement setups were comparable. On average a 15-20% lower signal was recorded on our setup compared to the Faraday Cup, which was attributed to the lower photoluminescent efficiency of the P22 phosphor screens when operated at sub-kilovolt bias voltages.

High pumping-power fiber combiner for double-cladding fiber lasers and amplifiers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Jinkun; Zhao, Wei; Zhao, Baoyin; Li, Zhe; Chang, Chang; Li, Gang; Gao, Qi; Ju, Pei; Gao, Wei; She, Shengfei; Wu, Peng; Hou, Chaoqi; Li, Weinan

2018-03-01

A high pumping-power fiber combiner for backward pumping configurations is fabricated and demonstrated by manufacturing process refinement. The pump power handling capability of every pump fiber can extend to 600 W, corresponding to the average pump coupling efficiency of 94.83%. Totally, 2.67-kW output power with the beam quality factor M2 of 1.41 was obtained, using this combiner in the fiber amplifier experimental setup. In addition, the temperature of the splicing region was less than 50.0°C in the designed combiner under the action of circulating cooling water. The experimental results prove that the designed combiner is a promising integrated all-fiber device for multikilowatt continuous-wave fiber laser with excellent beam quality.

An optimized adaptive optics experimental setup for in vivo retinal imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balderas-Mata, S. E.; Valdivieso González, L. G.; Ramírez Zavaleta, G.; López Olazagasti, E.; Tepichin Rodriguez, E.

2012-10-01

The use of Adaptive Optics (AO) in ophthalmologic instruments to image human retinas has been probed to improve the imaging lateral resolution, by correcting both static and dynamic aberrations inherent in human eyes. Typically, the configuration of the AO arm uses an infrared beam from a superluminescent diode (SLD), which is focused on the retina, acting as a point source. The back reflected light emerges through the eye optical system bringing with it the aberrations of the cornea. The aberrated wavefront is measured with a Shack - Hartmann wavefront sensor (SHWFS). However, the aberrations in the optical imaging system can reduced the performance of the wave front correction. The aim of this work is to present an optimized first stage AO experimental setup for in vivo retinal imaging. In our proposal, the imaging optical system has been designed in order to reduce spherical aberrations due to the lenses. The ANSI Standard is followed assuring the safety power levels. The performance of the system will be compared with a commercial aberrometer. This system will be used as the AO arm of a flood-illuminated fundus camera system for retinal imaging. We present preliminary experimental results showing the enhancement.

Design of a factorial experiment with randomization restrictions to assess medical device performance on vascular tissue.

PubMed

Diestelkamp, Wiebke S; Krane, Carissa M; Pinnell, Margaret F

2011-05-20

Energy-based surgical scalpels are designed to efficiently transect and seal blood vessels using thermal energy to promote protein denaturation and coagulation. Assessment and design improvement of ultrasonic scalpel performance relies on both in vivo and ex vivo testing. The objective of this work was to design and implement a robust, experimental test matrix with randomization restrictions and predictive statistical power, which allowed for identification of those experimental variables that may affect the quality of the seal obtained ex vivo. The design of the experiment included three factors: temperature (two levels); the type of solution used to perfuse the artery during transection (three types); and artery type (two types) resulting in a total of twelve possible treatment combinations. Burst pressures of porcine carotid and renal arteries sealed ex vivo were assigned as the response variable. The experimental test matrix was designed and carried out as a split-plot experiment in order to assess the contributions of several variables and their interactions while accounting for randomization restrictions present in the experimental setup. The statistical software package SAS was utilized and PROC MIXED was used to account for the randomization restrictions in the split-plot design. The combination of temperature, solution, and vessel type had a statistically significant impact on seal quality. The design and implementation of a split-plot experimental test-matrix provided a mechanism for addressing the existing technical randomization restrictions of ex vivo ultrasonic scalpel performance testing, while preserving the ability to examine the potential effects of independent factors or variables. This method for generating the experimental design and the statistical analyses of the resulting data are adaptable to a wide variety of experimental problems involving large-scale tissue-based studies of medical or experimental device efficacy and performance.

Length matters: Improved high field EEG-fMRI recordings using shorter EEG cables.

PubMed

Assecondi, Sara; Lavallee, Christina; Ferrari, Paolo; Jovicich, Jorge

2016-08-30

The use of concurrent EEG-fMRI recordings has increased in recent years, allowing new avenues of medical and cognitive neuroscience research; however, currently used setups present problems with data quality and reproducibility. We propose a compact experimental setup for concurrent EEG-fMRI at 4T and compare it to a more standard reference setup. The compact setup uses short EEG cables connecting to the amplifiers, which are placed right at the back of the head RF coil on a form-fitting extension force-locked to the patient MR bed. We compare the two setups in terms of sensitivity to MR-room environmental noise, interferences between measuring devices (EEG or fMRI), and sensitivity to functional responses in a visual stimulation paradigm. The compact setup reduces the system sensitivity to both external noise and MR-induced artefacts by at least 60%, with negligible EEG noise induced from the mechanical vibrations of the cryogenic cooling compression pump. The compact setup improved EEG data quality and the overall performance of MR-artifact correction techniques. Both setups were similar in terms of the fMRI data, with higher reproducibility for cable placement within the scanner in the compact setup. This improved compact setup may be relevant to MR laboratories interested in reducing the sensitivity of their EEG-fMRI experimental setup to external noise sources, setting up an EEG-fMRI workplace for the first time, or for creating a more reproducible configuration of equipment and cables. Implications for safety and ergonomics are discussed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The FIRST experiment at GSI

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pleskac, R.; Abou-Haidar, Z.; Agodi, C.; Alvarez, M. A. G.; Aumann, T.; Battistoni, G.; Bocci, A.; Böhlen, T. T.; Boudard, A.; Brunetti, A.; Carpinelli, M.; Cirrone, G. A. P.; Cortes-Giraldo, M. A.; Cuttone, G.; De Napoli, M.; Durante, M.; Fernández-García, J. P.; Finck, C.; Golosio, B.; Gallardo, M. I.; Iarocci, E.; Iazzi, F.; Ickert, G.; Introzzi, R.; Juliani, D.; Krimmer, J.; Kurz, N.; Labalme, M.; Leifels, Y.; Le Fevre, A.; Leray, S.; Marchetto, F.; Monaco, V.; Morone, M. C.; Oliva, P.; Paoloni, A.; Piersanti, L.; Quesada, J. M.; Raciti, G.; Randazzo, N.; Romano, F.; Rossi, D.; Rousseau, M.; Sacchi, R.; Sala, P.; Sarti, A.; Scheidenberger, C.; Schuy, C.; Sciubba, A.; Sfienti, C.; Simon, H.; Sipala, V.; Spiriti, E.; Stuttge, L.; Tropea, S.; Younis, H.; Patera, V.

2012-06-01

The FIRST (Fragmentation of Ions Relevant for Space and Therapy) experiment at the SIS accelerator of GSI laboratory in Darmstadt has been designed for the measurement of ion fragmentation cross-sections at different angles and energies between 100 and 1000 MeV/nucleon. Nuclear fragmentation processes are relevant in several fields of basic research and applied physics and are of particular interest for tumor therapy and for space radiation protection applications. The start of the scientific program of the FIRST experiment was on summer 2011 and was focused on the measurement of 400 MeV/nucleon 12C beam fragmentation on thin (8 mm) graphite target. The detector is partly based on an already existing setup made of a dipole magnet (ALADiN), a time projection chamber (TP-MUSIC IV), a neutron detector (LAND) and a time of flight scintillator system (TOFWALL). This pre-existing setup has been integrated with newly designed detectors in the Interaction Region, around the carbon target placed in a sample changer. The new detectors are a scintillator Start Counter, a Beam Monitor drift chamber, a silicon Vertex Detector and a Proton Tagger scintillator system optimized for the detection of light fragments emitted at large angles. In this paper we review the experimental setup, then we present the simulation software, the data acquisition system and finally the trigger strategy of the experiment.

Optimizing Mouse Surgery with Online Rectal Temperature Monitoring and Preoperative Heat Supply. Effects on Post-Ischemic Acute Kidney Injury

PubMed Central

Holderied, Alexander; Anders, Hans-Joachim

2016-01-01

Body temperature affects outcomes of tissue injury. We hypothesized that online body core temperature recording and selective interventions help to standardize peri-interventional temperature control and the reliability of outcomes in experimental renal ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI). We recorded core temperature in up to seven mice in parallel using a Thermes USB recorder and ret-3-iso rectal probes with three different protocols. Setup A: Heating pad during ischemia time; Setup B: Heating pad from incision to wound closure; Setup C: A ventilated heating chamber before surgery and during ischemia time with surgeries performed on a heating pad. Temperature profile recording displayed significant declines upon installing anesthesia. The profile of the baseline experimental setup A revealed that <1% of the temperature readings were within the target range of 36.5 to 38.5°C. Setup B and C increased the target range readings to 34.6 ± 28.0% and 99.3 ± 1.5%, respectively. Setup C significantly increased S3 tubular necrosis, neutrophil influx, and mRNA expression of kidney injury markers. In addition, using setup C different ischemia times generated a linear correlation with acute tubular necrosis parameters at a low variability, which further correlated with the degree of kidney atrophy 5 weeks after surgery. Changing temperature control setup A to C was equivalent to 10 minutes more ischemia time. We conclude that body temperature drops quickly in mice upon initiating anesthesia. Immediate heat supply, e.g. in a ventilated heating chamber, and online core temperature monitoring can help to standardize and optimize experimental outcomes. PMID:26890071

Experimental setup for Single Event Effects at the São Paulo 8UD Pelletron Accelerator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aguiar, V. A. P.; Added, N.; Medina, N. H.; Macchione, E. L. A.; Tabacniks, M. H.; Aguirre, F. R.; Silveira, M. A. G.; Santos, R. B. B.; Seixas, L. E.

2014-08-01

In this work we present an experimental setup mounted in one of the beam lines at the São Paulo 8UD Pelletron Accelerator in order to study Single Event Effects in electronic devices. The basic idea is to use elastic scattering collisions to achieve a low-flux with a high-uniformity ion beam to irradiate several devices. 12C, 16O, 28Si, 35Cl and 63Cu beams were used to test the experimental setup. In this system it is possible to use efficiently LET values of 17 MeV/mg/cm2 for an external beam arrangement and up to 32 MeV/mg/cm2 for in-vacuum irradiation.

Object's optical geometry measurements based on Extended Depth of Field (EDoF) approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szydłowski, Michał; Powałka, Bartosz; Chady, Tomasz; Waszczuk, Paweł

2017-02-01

The authors propose a method of using EDoF in macro inspections using bi-telecentric lenses and a specially designed experimental machine setup, allowing accurate focal distance changing. Also a software method is presented allowing EDoF image reconstruction using the continuous wavelet transform (CWT). Exploited method results are additionally compared with measurements performed with Keyence's LJ-V Series in-line Profilometer for reference matters.

Cooling Stability Test of MgB2 Wire Immersed in Liquid Hydrogen under External Magnetic Field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shirai, Yasuyuki; Hikawa, Kyosuke; Shiotsu, Masahiro; Tatsumoto, Hideki; Naruo, Yoshihiro; Kobayashi, Hiroaki; Inagaki, Yoshifumi

2014-05-01

Liquid hydrogen (LH2), which has large latent heat, low viscosity coefficient, is expected to be a candidate for a cryogen for superconducting wires, not only MgB2 but also other HTC superconductors. LH2 cooled superconducting wires are expected to have excellent electro-magnetic characteristics, which is necessary to be clear for cooling stability design of LH2 cooled superconducting device, however, due to handling difficulties of LH2, there are only few papers on the properties of LH2 cooled superconductors, especially under external magnetic field. We designed and made an experimental setup which can energize superconducting wires immersed in LH2 with the current of up to 500A under the condition of external magnetic field up to 7 T and pressure up to 1.5 MPa. In order to confirm experimental method and safety operation of the setup, over current tests were carried out using MgB2 superconducting wires under various external magnetic field conditions. Critical current of the test wire at the temperature 21, 24, 27, 29 K under external magnetic fields up to 1.2 T was successfully measured. The resistance of the wire also was measured, while the transport current exceeded the critical current of the wire.

Design of protonation constant measurement apparatus for carbon dioxide capturing solvents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma'mun, S.; Amelia, E.; Rahmat, V.; Alwani, D. R.; Kurniawan, D.

2016-11-01

Global warming phenomenon has led to world climate change caused by high concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHG), e.g. carbon dioxide (CO2), in the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide is produced in large amount from coal-fired power plants, iron and steel production, cement production, chemical and petrochemical manufacturing, natural gas purification, and transportation. Carbon dioxide emissions seem to rise from year to year; some efforts to reduce the emissions are, therefore, required. Amine-based absorption could be deployed for post-combustion capture. Some parameters, e.g. mass transfer coefficients and chemical equilibrium constants, are required for a vapor-liquid equilibrium modeling. Protonation constant (pKa), as one of those parameters, could then be measured experimentally. Therefore, an experimental setup to measure pKa of CO2 capturing solvents was designed and validated by measuring the pKa of acetic acid at 30 to 70 °C by a potentiometric titration method. The set up was also used to measure the pKa of MEA at 27 °C. Based on the validation results and due to low vapor pressure of CO2 capturing solvents in general, e.g. alkanolamines, the setup could therefore be used for measuring pKa of the CO2 capturing solvents at temperatures up to 70 °C.

Prediction of light aircraft interior sound pressure level from the measured sound power flowing in to the cabin

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Atwal, Mahabir S.; Heitman, Karen E.; Crocker, Malcolm J.

1986-01-01

The validity of the room equation of Crocker and Price (1982) for predicting the cabin interior sound pressure level was experimentally tested using a specially constructed setup for simultaneous measurements of transmitted sound intensity and interior sound pressure levels. Using measured values of the reverberation time and transmitted intensities, the equation was used to predict the space-averaged interior sound pressure level for three different fuselage conditions. The general agreement between the room equation and experimental test data is considered good enough for this equation to be used for preliminary design studies.

Advanced Method to Estimate Fuel Slosh Simulation Parameters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schlee, Keith; Gangadharan, Sathya; Ristow, James; Sudermann, James; Walker, Charles; Hubert, Carl

2005-01-01

The nutation (wobble) of a spinning spacecraft in the presence of energy dissipation is a well-known problem in dynamics and is of particular concern for space missions. The nutation of a spacecraft spinning about its minor axis typically grows exponentially and the rate of growth is characterized by the Nutation Time Constant (NTC). For launch vehicles using spin-stabilized upper stages, fuel slosh in the spacecraft propellant tanks is usually the primary source of energy dissipation. For analytical prediction of the NTC this fuel slosh is commonly modeled using simple mechanical analogies such as pendulums or rigid rotors coupled to the spacecraft. Identifying model parameter values which adequately represent the sloshing dynamics is the most important step in obtaining an accurate NTC estimate. Analytic determination of the slosh model parameters has met with mixed success and is made even more difficult by the introduction of propellant management devices and elastomeric diaphragms. By subjecting full-sized fuel tanks with actual flight fuel loads to motion similar to that experienced in flight and measuring the forces experienced by the tanks these parameters can be determined experimentally. Currently, the identification of the model parameters is a laborious trial-and-error process in which the equations of motion for the mechanical analog are hand-derived, evaluated, and their results are compared with the experimental results. The proposed research is an effort to automate the process of identifying the parameters of the slosh model using a MATLAB/SimMechanics-based computer simulation of the experimental setup. Different parameter estimation and optimization approaches are evaluated and compared in order to arrive at a reliable and effective parameter identification process. To evaluate each parameter identification approach, a simple one-degree-of-freedom pendulum experiment is constructed and motion is induced using an electric motor. By applying the estimation approach to a simple, accurately modeled system, its effectiveness and accuracy can be evaluated. The same experimental setup can then be used with fluid-filled tanks to further evaluate the effectiveness of the process. Ultimately, the proven process can be applied to the full-sized spinning experimental setup to quickly and accurately determine the slosh model parameters for a particular spacecraft mission. Automating the parameter identification process will save time, allow more changes to be made to proposed designs, and lower the cost in the initial design stages.

ESC Working Group on Myocardial Function Position Paper: how to study the right ventricle in experimental models.

PubMed

Leite-Moreira, Adelino F; Lourenço, André P; Balligand, Jean-Luc; Bauersachs, Johann; Clerk, Angela; De Windt, Leon J; Heymans, Stephane; Hilfiker-Kleiner, Denise; Hirsch, Emilio; Iaccarino, Guido; Kaminski, Karol A; Knöll, Ralph; Mayr, Manuel; Tarone, Guido; Thum, Thomas; Tocchetti, Carlo G

2014-05-01

The right ventricle has become an increasing focus in cardiovascular research. In this position paper, we give a brief overview of the specific pathophysiological features of the right ventricle, with particular emphasis on functional and molecular modifications as well as therapeutic strategies in chronic overload, highlighting the differences from the left ventricle. Importantly, we put together recommendations on promising topics of research in the field, experimental study design, and functional evaluation of the right ventricle in experimental models, from non-invasive methodologies to haemodynamic evaluation and ex vivo set-ups. © 2014 The Authors. European Journal of Heart Failure © 2014 European Society of Cardiology.

An undergraduate laboratory experiment for measuring ɛ 0, μ 0 and speed of light c with do-it-yourself catastrophe machines: electrostatic and magnetostatic pendula

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishonov, Todor M.; Varonov, Albert M.; Maksimovski, Dejan D.; Manolev, Stojan G.; Gourev, Vassil N.; Yordanov, Vasil G.

2017-03-01

An experimental set-up for electrostatic measurement of {\\varepsilon }0, separate magnetostatic measurement of {μ }0 and determination of the speed of light c=1/\\sqrt{{\\varepsilon }0{μ }0} according to Maxwell’s theory with percent accuracy is described. No forces are measured with the experimental set-up, therefore there is no need for a scale, and the experiment cost of less than £20 is mainly due to the batteries used. Multiplied 137 times, this experimental set-up was given at the Fourth Open International Experimental Physics Olympiad (EPO4) and a dozen high school students performed successful experiments. The experimental set-up actually contains two different pendula for electric and magnetic measurements. In the magnetic experiment the pendulum is constituted by a magnetic coil attracted to a fixed one. In the electrostatic pendulum when the distance between the plates becomes shorter than a critical value the suspended plate catastrophically sticks to the fixed one, while in the magnetic pendulum the same occurs when the current in the coils becomes greater than a certain critical value. The basic idea of the methodology is to use the loss of stability as a tool for the determination of fundamental constants.

A highly versatile automatized setup for quantitative measurements of PHIP enhancements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kiryutin, Alexey S.; Sauer, Grit; Hadjiali, Sara; Yurkovskaya, Alexandra V.; Breitzke, Hergen; Buntkowsky, Gerd

2017-12-01

The design and application of a versatile and inexpensive experimental extension to NMR spectrometers is described that allows to carry out highly reproducible PHIP experiments directly in the NMR sample tube, i.e. under PASADENA condition, followed by the detection of the NMR spectra of hyperpolarized products with high spectral resolution. Employing this high resolution it is feasible to study kinetic processes in the solution with high accuracy. As a practical example the dissolution of hydrogen gas in the liquid and the PHIP kinetics during the hydrogenation reaction of Fmoc-O-propargyl-L-tyrosine in acetone-d6 are monitored. The timing of the setup is fully controlled by the pulse-programmer of the NMR spectrometer. By flushing with an inert gas it is possible to efficiently quench the hydrogenation reaction in a controlled fashion and to detect the relaxation of hyperpolarization without a background reaction. The proposed design makes it possible to carry out PHIP experiments in an automatic mode and reliably determine the enhancement of polarized signals.

Investigation on the growth and characterization of 4-aminobenzophenone single crystal by the vertical dynamic gradient freeze technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prabhakaran, SP.; Ramesh Babu, R.; Sukumar, M.; Bhagavannarayana, G.; Ramamurthi, K.

2014-03-01

Growth of bulk single crystal of 4-Aminobenzophenone (4-ABP) from the vertical dynamic gradient freeze (VDGF) setup designed with eight zone furnace was investigated. The experimental parameters for the growth of 4-ABP single crystal with respect to the design of VDGF setup are discussed. The eight zones were used to generate multiple temperature gradients over the furnace, and video imaging system helped to capture the real time growth and solid-liquid interface. 4-ABP single crystal with the size of 18 mm diameter and 40 mm length was grown from this investigation. Structural and optical quality of grown crystal was examined by high resolution X-ray diffraction and UV-visible spectral analysis, respectively and the blue emission was also confirmed from the photoluminescence spectrum. Microhardness number of the crystal was estimated at different loads using Vicker's microhardness tester. The size and quality of single crystal grown from the present investigation are compared with the vertical Bridgman grown 4-ABP.

Experimental realization of dynamo action: present status and prospects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giesecke, André; Stefani, Frank; Gundrum, Thomas; Gerbeth, Gunter; Nore, Caroline; Léorat, Jacques

2013-07-01

In the last decades, the experimental study of dynamo action has made great progress. However, after the dynamo experiments in Karlsruhe and Riga, the von-Kármán-Sodium (VKS) dynamo is only the third facility that has been able to demonstrate fluid flow driven self-generation of magnetic fields in a laboratory experiment. Further progress in the experimental examination of dynamo action is expected from the planned precession driven dynamo experiment that will be designed in the framework of the liquid sodium facility DRESDYN (DREsden Sodium facility for DYNamo and thermohydraulic studies). In this paper, we briefly present numerical models of the VKS dynamo that demonstrate the close relation between the axisymmetric field observed in that experiment and the soft iron material used for the flow driving impellers. We further show recent results of preparatory water experiments and design studies related to the precession dynamo and delineate the scientific prospects for the final set-up.

A fast field-cycling device for high-resolution NMR: Design and application to spin relaxation and hyperpolarization experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kiryutin, Alexey S.; Pravdivtsev, Andrey N.; Ivanov, Konstantin L.; Grishin, Yuri A.; Vieth, Hans-Martin; Yurkovskaya, Alexandra V.

2016-02-01

A device for performing fast magnetic field-cycling NMR experiments is described. A key feature of this setup is that it combines fast switching of the external magnetic field and high-resolution NMR detection. The field-cycling method is based on precise mechanical positioning of the NMR probe with the mounted sample in the inhomogeneous fringe field of the spectrometer magnet. The device enables field variation over several decades (from 100 μT up to 7 T) within less than 0.3 s; progress in NMR probe design provides NMR linewidths of about 10-3 ppm. The experimental method is very versatile and enables site-specific studies of spin relaxation (NMRD, LLSs) and spin hyperpolarization (DNP, CIDNP, and SABRE) at variable magnetic field and at variable temperature. Experimental examples of such studies are demonstrated; advantages of the experimental method are described and existing challenges in the field are outlined.

Developing a cost effective rock bed thermal energy storage system: Design and modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laubscher, Hendrik Frederik; von Backström, Theodor Willem; Dinter, Frank

2017-06-01

Thermal energy storage is an integral part of the drive for low cost of concentrated solar power (CSP). Storage of thermal energy enables CSP plants to provide base load power. Alternative, cheaper concepts for storing thermal energy have been conceptually proposed in previous studies. Using rocks as a storage medium and air as a heat transfer fluid, the proposed concept offers the potential of lower cost storage because of the abundance and affordability of rocks. A packed rock bed thermal energy storage (TES) concept is investigated and a design for an experimental rig is done. This paper describes the design and modelling of an experimental test facility for a cost effective packed rock bed thermal energy storage system. Cost effective, simplified designs for the different subsystems of an experimental setup are developed based on the availability of materials and equipment. Modelling of this design to predict the thermal performance of the TES system is covered in this study. If the concept under consideration proves to be successful, a design that is scalable and commercially viable can be proposed for further development of an industrial thermal energy storage system.

Experimental realization for abnormal reflection caused by an acoustic metasurface with subwavelength apertures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xuanjun; Zeng, Xinwu; Gao, Dongbao; Shen, Weidong; Wang, Jianli; Wang, Shengchun

2017-03-01

The reflection characteristics of the unit cell, consisting of a subwavelength circular hole and a rigid wall, was discussed theoretically, and it was found that the phase shift of the reflected waves could cover almost 2π span by adjusting the hole radius when the acoustic waves normally impinge on it. Based on the analytical formulas, an acoustic metasurface (AMS) sample constructed by an array of unit cells with different radii was designed and fabricated. The sound pressure fields induced by the sample were then measured through the experimental setup and the reflected field pattern was derived after data processing. Experimental results and COMSOL simulations both demonstrated the fact that the designed AMS has the ability to reflect acoustic waves into an unusual yet controllable direction, verifying the correctness of the theory and design about the AMS in this paper. Simulations also show that the designed AMS has a narrow working bandwidth of 50 Hz around 800 Hz and its total thickness is about 1/8 of the incident wavelength, giving it the potential for the miniaturization and integration of acoustic devices.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shi, J.; Xue, X.

A comprehensive 3D CFD model is developed for a bi-electrode supported cell (BSC) SOFC. The model includes complicated transport phenomena of mass/heat transfer, charge (electron and ion) migration, and electrochemical reaction. The uniqueness of the modeling study is that functionally graded porous electrode property is taken into account, including not only linear but nonlinear porosity distributions. Extensive numerical analysis is performed to elucidate the effects of both porous microstructure distributions and operating condition on cell performance. Results indicate that cell performance is strongly dependent on both operating conditions and porous microstructure distributions of electrodes. Using the proposed fuel/gas feeding design,more » the uniform hydrogen distribution within porous anode is achieved; the oxygen distribution within the cathode is dependent on porous microstructure distributions as well as pressure loss conditions. Simulation results show that fairly uniform temperature distribution can be obtained with the proposed fuel/gas feeding design. The modeling results can be employed to guide experimental design of BSC test and provide pre-experimental analysis, as a result, to circumvent high cost associated with try-and-error experimental design and setup.« less

High-resolution continuous-flow analysis setup for water isotopic measurement from ice cores using laser spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Emanuelsson, B. D.; Baisden, W. T.; Bertler, N. A. N.; Keller, E. D.; Gkinis, V.

2015-07-01

Here we present an experimental setup for water stable isotope (δ18O and δD) continuous-flow measurements and provide metrics defining the performance of the setup during a major ice core measurement campaign (Roosevelt Island Climate Evolution; RICE). We also use the metrics to compare alternate systems. Our setup is the first continuous-flow laser spectroscopy system that is using off-axis integrated cavity output spectroscopy (OA-ICOS; analyzer manufactured by Los Gatos Research, LGR) in combination with an evaporation unit to continuously analyze water samples from an ice core. A Water Vapor Isotope Standard Source (WVISS) calibration unit, manufactured by LGR, was modified to (1) enable measurements on several water standards, (2) increase the temporal resolution by reducing the response time and (3) reduce the influence from memory effects. While this setup was designed for the continuous-flow analysis (CFA) of ice cores, it can also continuously analyze other liquid or vapor sources. The custom setups provide a shorter response time (~ 54 and 18 s for 2013 and 2014 setup, respectively) compared to the original WVISS unit (~ 62 s), which is an improvement in measurement resolution. Another improvement compared to the original WVISS is that the custom setups have a reduced memory effect. Stability tests comparing the custom and WVISS setups were performed and Allan deviations (σAllan) were calculated to determine precision at different averaging times. For the custom 2013 setup the precision after integration times of 103 s is 0.060 and 0.070 ‰ for δ18O and δD, respectively. The corresponding σAllan values for the custom 2014 setup are 0.030, 0.060 and 0.043 ‰ for δ18O, δD and δ17O, respectively. For the WVISS setup the precision is 0.035, 0.070 and 0.042 ‰ after 103 s for δ18O, δD and δ17O, respectively. Both the custom setups and WVISS setup are influenced by instrumental drift with δ18O being more drift sensitive than δD. The σAllan values for δ18O are 0.30 and 0.18 ‰ for the custom 2013 and WVISS setup, respectively, after averaging times of 104 s (2.78 h). Using response time tests and stability tests, we show that the custom setups are more responsive (shorter response time), whereas the University of Copenhagen (UC) setup is more stable. More broadly, comparisons of different setups address the challenge of integrating vaporizer/spectrometer isotope measurement systems into a CFA campaign with many other analytical instruments.

Inflammasomes make the case for littermate-controlled experimental design in studying host-microbiota interactions.

PubMed

Mamantopoulos, Michail; Ronchi, Francesca; McCoy, Kathy D; Wullaert, Andy

2018-04-19

Several human diseases are thought to evolve due to a combination of host genetic mutations and environmental factors that include alterations in intestinal microbiota composition termed dysbiosis. Although in some cases, host genetics may shape the gut microbiota and enable it to provoke disease, experimentally disentangling cause and consequence in such host-microbe interactions requires strict control over non-genetic confounding factors. Mouse genetic studies previously proposed Nlrp6/ASC inflammasomes as innate immunity regulators of the intestinal ecosystem. In contrast, using littermate-controlled experimental setups, we recently showed that Nlrp6/ASC inflammasomes do not alter the gut microbiota composition. Our analyses indicated that maternal inheritance and long-term separate housing are non-genetic confounders that preclude the use of non-littermate mice when analyzing host genetic effects on intestinal ecology. Here, we summarize and discuss our gut microbiota analyses in inflammasome-deficient mice for illustrating the importance of littermate experimental design in studying host-microbiota interactions.

Measurement of sound velocity made easy using harmonic resonant frequencies with everyday mobile technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hirth, Michael; Kuhn, Jochen; Müller, Andreas

2015-02-01

Recent articles about smartphone experiments have described their applications as experimental tools in different physical contexts.1-4 They have established that smartphones facilitate experimental setups, thanks to the small size and diverse functions of mobile devices, in comparison to setups with computer-based measurements. In the experiment described in this article, the experimental setup is reduced to a minimum. The objective of the experiment is to determine the speed of sound with a high degree of accuracy using everyday tools. An article published recently proposes a time-of-flight method where sound or acoustic pulses are reflected at the ends of an open tube.5 In contrast, the following experiment idea is based on the harmonic resonant frequencies of such a tube, simultaneously triggered by a noise signal.

Spying on photons with photons: quantum interference and information

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ataman, Stefan

2016-07-01

The quest to have both which-path knowledge and interference fringes in a double-slit experiment dates back to the inception of quantum mechanics (QM) and to the famous Einstein-Bohr debates. In this paper we propose and discuss an experiment able to spy on one photon's path with another photon. We modify the quantum state inside the interferometer as opposed to the traditional physical modification of the "wave-like" or "particle-like" experimental setup. We are able to show that it is the ability to harvest or not which-path information that finally limits the visibility of the interference pattern and not the "wave-like" or "particle-like" experimental setups. Remarkably, a full "particle-like" experimental setup is able to show interference fringes with 100% visibility if the quantum state is carefully engineered.

A novel vibration measurement and active control method for a hinged flexible two-connected piezoelectric plate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiu, Zhi-cheng; Wang, Xian-feng; Zhang, Xian-Min; Liu, Jin-guo

2018-07-01

A novel non-contact vibration measurement method using binocular vision sensors is proposed for piezoelectric flexible hinged plate. Decoupling methods of the bending and torsional low frequency vibration on measurement and driving control are investigated, using binocular vision sensors and piezoelectric actuators. A radial basis function neural network controller (RBFNNC) is designed to suppress both the larger and the smaller amplitude vibrations. To verify the non-contact measurement method and the designed controller, an experimental setup of the flexible hinged plate with binocular vision is constructed. Experiments on vibration measurement and control are conducted by using binocular vision sensors and the designed RBFNNC controllers, compared with the classical proportional and derivative (PD) control algorithm. The experimental measurement results demonstrate that the binocular vision sensors can detect the low-frequency bending and torsional vibration effectively. Furthermore, the designed RBF can suppress the bending vibration more quickly than the designed PD controller owing to the adjustment of the RBF control, especially for the small amplitude residual vibrations.

Integrating labview into a distributed computing environment.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kasemir, K. U.; Pieck, M.; Dalesio, L. R.

2001-01-01

Being easy to learn and well suited for a selfcontained desktop laboratory setup, many casual programmers prefer to use the National Instruments Lab-VIEW environment to develop their logic. An ActiveX interface is presented that allows integration into a plant-wide distributed environment based on the Experimental Physics and Industrial Control System (EPICS). This paper discusses the design decisions and provides performance information, especially considering requirements for the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) diagnostics system.

A Flexible Pilot-Scale Setup for Real-Time Studies in Process Systems Engineering

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Panjapornpon, Chanin; Fletcher, Nathan; Soroush, Masoud

2006-01-01

This manuscript describes a flexible, pilot-scale setup that can be used for training students and carrying out research in process systems engineering. The setup allows one to study a variety of process systems engineering concepts such as design feasibility, design flexibility, control configuration selection, parameter estimation, process and…

PSICHE: a new beamline dedicated to X-ray diffraction and tomography at high pressure at synchrotron SOLEIL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guignot, N.; Itié, J.; Zerbino, P.; Delmotte, A.; Moreno, T.

2013-12-01

The PSICHE beamline (for 'Pressure, Structure and Imaging by Contrast at High Energy') is a new facility opened for high pressure experiments at synchrotron SOLEIL (St-Aubin, France). With its source, optics, detectors and 3 experimental stations, it can handle a large variety of experimental setups. High energy photons are produced with an in-vacuum wiggler. The white beam obtained, with photons energy ranging continuously from 15 to 80 keV (from a 2.75 GeV machine), is used on the first experimental station for energy dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDX) measurements using different pressure cells. The main setup is a 1200 tons load capacity multi-anvil press featuring a (100) DIA compression module with a 15° horizontal aperture, allowing measurements up to 30° in 2theta by rotating the press. Other setups are a Paris-Edinburgh (PE) large volume press and diamond anvil cells (DACs). On the detection side we have a rotating Ge detector, based on the CAESAR design described by Wang et al. (2004) (combination of EDX and angular dispersive X-ray diffraction, ADX). One of the difficulties when building such setups is the rotation mechanism which cannot be physically attached to the rotation axis, potentially leading to large circle of confusions on the horizontal position of this axis. Thanks to translation corrections done at each angle step, the circle of confusion is minimized to 3x6 μm2 along the 35° travel, making possible measurements on very small objects. Combining EDX and ADX has a lot of advantages and we will present our first results obtained using this setup. The PSICHE focusing optics and monochromator are also used to focus monochromatic beams (up to 52 keV) on 2 different experimental stations. The first focal point at 31 m gives a beam size of 100x50 μm2 (HxV) and is useful for low pressure experiments and experiments done with the PE press associated with Soller slits. A PerkinElmer flatpanel detector can be precisely scanned in 3 directions, making ADX measurements at the highest possible resolution on this beamline. This station will also be used for diffraction tomography experiments. The second focal point at 37.6 m is located behind KB mirrors on the third experimental station. 10x10 μm2 beam sizes (full width) are expected. This station will be used for DAC experiments, with or without our future laser heating setup. Finally, parallel beams can be produced with sizes up to 15x5 mm2 (HxV) for tomography experiments, in pink (filtered white) beam or monochromatic beam. We plan to use rotating anvils presses such as the rotoPEc (J. Philippe et al., 2013) to take full advantage of this beam mode, but it can be opened to other techniques. The PSICHE beamline is opened for users since July 2013. Some stations are not available yet, and will be opened through 2014 and 2015. References X. Dong et al., Ray tracing application in hard x-ray optical development: Soleil first wiggler beamline (PSICHÉ) case" (2011), Proc. SPIE 8141, 814113 Y. Wang et al., A new technique for angle-dispersive powder diffraction using an energy-dispersive setup and synchrotron radiation (2004), J. Appl. Cryst. 37, 947-956 J. Philippe, Y. Le Godec, F. Bergame et M. Morand, Patent INPI 11 62335 (2013)

Micro-Bubble Experiments at the Van de Graaff Accelerator

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sun, Z. J.; Wardle, Kent E.; Quigley, K. J.

In order to test and verify the experimental designs at the linear accelerator (LINAC), several micro-scale bubble ("micro-bubble") experiments were conducted with the 3-MeV Van de Graaff (VDG) electron accelerator. The experimental setups included a square quartz tube, sodium bisulfate solution with different concentrations, cooling coils, gas chromatography (GC) system, raster magnets, and two high-resolution cameras that were controlled by a LabVIEW program. Different beam currents were applied in the VDG irradiation. Bubble generation (radiolysis), thermal expansion, thermal convection, and radiation damage were observed in the experiments. Photographs, videos, and gas formation (O 2 + H 2) data were collected.more » The micro-bubble experiments at VDG indicate that the design of the full-scale bubble experiments at the LINAC is reasonable.« less

Experimental Characterization and Modeling of Thermal Contact Resistance of Electric Machine Stator-to-Cooling Jacket Interface Under Interference Fit Loading

DOE PAGES

Cousineau, Justine Emily; Bennion, Kevin S.; Chieduko, Victor; ...

2018-05-08

Cooling of electric machines is a key to increasing power density and improving reliability. This paper focuses on the design of a machine using a cooling jacket wrapped around the stator. The thermal contact resistance (TCR) between the electric machine stator and cooling jacket is a significant factor in overall performance and is not well characterized. This interface is typically an interference fit subject to compressive pressure exceeding 5 MPa. An experimental investigation of this interface was carried out using a thermal transmittance setup using pressures between 5 and 10 MPa. Furthermore, the results were compared to currently available modelsmore » for contact resistance, and one model was adapted for prediction of TCR in future motor designs.« less

Experimental Characterization and Modeling of Thermal Contact Resistance of Electric Machine Stator-to-Cooling Jacket Interface Under Interference Fit Loading

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cousineau, Justine Emily; Bennion, Kevin S.; Chieduko, Victor

Cooling of electric machines is a key to increasing power density and improving reliability. This paper focuses on the design of a machine using a cooling jacket wrapped around the stator. The thermal contact resistance (TCR) between the electric machine stator and cooling jacket is a significant factor in overall performance and is not well characterized. This interface is typically an interference fit subject to compressive pressure exceeding 5 MPa. An experimental investigation of this interface was carried out using a thermal transmittance setup using pressures between 5 and 10 MPa. Furthermore, the results were compared to currently available modelsmore » for contact resistance, and one model was adapted for prediction of TCR in future motor designs.« less

Reducing tilt-to-length coupling for the LISA test mass interferometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tröbs, M.; Schuster, S.; Lieser, M.; Zwetz, M.; Chwalla, M.; Danzmann, K.; Fernández Barránco, G.; Fitzsimons, E. D.; Gerberding, O.; Heinzel, G.; Killow, C. J.; Perreur-Lloyd, M.; Robertson, D. I.; Schwarze, T. S.; Wanner, G.; Ward, H.

2018-05-01

Objects sensed by laser interferometers are usually not stable in position or orientation. This angular instability can lead to a coupling of angular tilt to apparent longitudinal displacement—tilt-to-length coupling (TTL). In LISA this is a potential noise source for both the test mass interferometer and the long-arm interferometer. We have experimentally investigated TTL coupling in a setup representative for the LISA test mass interferometer and used this system to characterise two different imaging systems (a two-lens design and a four-lens design) both designed to minimise TTL coupling. We show that both imaging systems meet the LISA requirement of  ±25 μm rad‑1 for interfering beams with relative angles of up to  ±300 μrad. Furthermore, we found a dependency of the TTL coupling on beam properties such as the waist size and location, which we characterised both theoretically and experimentally.

Transport channel of secondary ion beam of experimental setup for selective laser ionization with gas cell GALS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gulbekyan, G. G.; Zemlyanoy, S. G.; Bashevoy, V. V.; Ivanenko, I. A.; Kazarinov, N. Yu; Kazacha, V. I.; Osipov, N. F.

2017-07-01

GALS is the experimental setup intended for production and research of isobaric and isotopically pure heavy neutron-rich nuclei. The beam line consists of two parts. The initial part is used for transport of the primary 136Xe ion beam with the energy of 4.5-9.0 MeV/amu from the FLNR cyclotron U-400M to the Pb target for production of the studying ion beams. These beams have the following design parameters: the charge Z = +1, the mass A = 180-270 and the kinetic energy W = 40 keV. The second part placed after the target consists of the SPIG (QPIG) system, the accelerating gap, the electrostatic Einzel lens, 90-degree spectrometric magnet (calculated value of the mass-resolution is equal to 1400) and the beam line for the transportation of the ions from the magnet focal plane to a particle detector. The results of simulation of the particle dynamics and the basic parameters of all elements of the beam line are presented.

Novel Anaerobic Wastewater Treatment System for Energy Generation at Forward Operating Bases

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-01

AnMBR) technology with clinoptilolite ion exchange and GreenBox™ ammonia electrolysis. The system generates both methane and hydrogen fuels...experimental setup. ................................................ 21 Figure 10. Methane phase semi batch experimental setup, a total of three reactors were...set up for PS + solid, Bioc and ADS methane phase reactors. .................... 21 Figure 11. Dried PS solid for the control, Bioc blend for the

Center for Hybrid Communications and Networks

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-08

Transmission loop experimental setup to study coded modulation and turbo equalization for metro and long-haul networks, 3) Experimental setup for...undertaking fundamental studies of QKD systems that use ( hyper -) entangled photon pairs or weak coherent states (WCS) as the quantum resources...onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/047134608X.W8291/abstract] The real-time scope and AWG are also used in fiber-optics transmission loop experiment we

Best practices for hybridization design in two-colour microarray analysis.

PubMed

Knapen, Dries; Vergauwen, Lucia; Laukens, Kris; Blust, Ronny

2009-07-01

Two-colour microarrays are a popular platform of choice in gene expression studies. Because two different samples are hybridized on a single microarray, and several microarrays are usually needed in a given experiment, there are many possible ways to combine samples on different microarrays. The actual combination employed is commonly referred to as the 'hybridization design'. Different types of hybridization designs have been developed, all aimed at optimizing the experimental setup for the detection of differentially expressed genes while coping with technical noise. Here, we first provide an overview of the different classes of hybridization designs, discussing their advantages and limitations, and then we illustrate the current trends in the use of different hybridization design types in contemporary research.

Fabrication of setup for high temperature thermal conductivity measurement.

PubMed

Patel, Ashutosh; Pandey, Sudhir K

2017-01-01

In this work, we report the fabrication of an experimental setup for high temperature thermal conductivity (κ) measurement. It can characterize samples with various dimensions and shapes. Steady state based axial heat flow technique is used for κ measurement. Heat loss is measured using parallel thermal conductance technique. Simple design, lightweight, and small size sample holder is developed by using a thin heater and limited components. Low heat loss value is achieved by using very low thermal conductive insulator block with small cross-sectional area. Power delivered to the heater is measured accurately by using 4-wire technique and for this, the heater is developed with 4 wires. This setup is validated by using Bi 0.36 Sb 1.45 Te 3 , polycrystalline bismuth, gadolinium, and alumina samples. The data obtained for these samples are found to be in good agreement with the reported data. The maximum deviation of 6% in the value κ is observed. This maximum deviation is observed with the gadolinium sample. We also report the thermal conductivity of polycrystalline tellurium from 320 K to 550 K and the nonmonotonous behavior of κ with temperature is observed.

Six-flow operations for catalyst development in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis: Bridging the gap between high-throughput experimentation and extensive product evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sartipi, Sina; Jansma, Harrie; Bosma, Duco; Boshuizen, Bart; Makkee, Michiel; Gascon, Jorge; Kapteijn, Freek

2013-12-01

Design and operation of a "six-flow fixed-bed microreactor" setup for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) is described. The unit consists of feed and mixing, flow division, reaction, separation, and analysis sections. The reactor system is made of five heating blocks with individual temperature controllers, assuring an identical isothermal zone of at least 10 cm along six fixed-bed microreactor inserts (4 mm inner diameter). Such a lab-scale setup allows running six experiments in parallel, under equal feed composition, reaction temperature, and conditions of separation and analysis equipment. It permits separate collection of wax and liquid samples (from each flow line), allowing operation with high productivities of C5+ hydrocarbons. The latter is crucial for a complete understanding of FTS product compositions and will represent an advantage over high-throughput setups with more than ten flows where such instrumental considerations lead to elevated equipment volume, cost, and operation complexity. The identical performance (of the six flows) under similar reaction conditions was assured by testing a same catalyst batch, loaded in all microreactors.

On the experimental prediction of the stability threshold speed caused by rotating damping

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vervisch, B.; Derammelaere, S.; Stockman, K.; De Baets, P.; Loccufier, M.

2016-08-01

An ever increasing demand for lighter rotating machinery and higher operating speeds results in a raised probability of instabilities. Rotating damping is one of the reasons, instability occurs. Rotating damping, or rotor internal damping, is the damping related to all rotating parts while non-rotating damping appearing in the non-rotating parts. The present study describes a rotating setup, designed to investigate rotating damping experimentally. An efficient experimental procedure is presented to predict the stability threshold of a rotating machine. The setup consists of a long thin shaft with a disk in the middle and clamped boundary conditions. The goal is to extract the system poles as a function of the rotating speed. The real parts of these poles are used to construct the decay rate plot, which is an indication for the stability. The efficiency of the experimental procedure relies on the model chosen for the rotating shaft. It is shown that the shaft behavior can be approximated by a single degree of freedom model that incorporates a speed dependent damping. As such low measurement effort and only one randomly chosen measurement location are needed to construct the decay rate plot. As an excitation, an automated impact hammer is used and the response is measured by eddy current probes. The proposed method yields a reliable prediction of the stability threshold speed which is validated through measurements.

Development and investigation of MOEMS type displacement-pressure sensor for biological information monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ostasevicius, Vytautas; Malinauskas, Karolis; Janusas, Giedrius; Palevicius, Arvydas; Cekas, Elingas

2016-04-01

The aim of this paper is to develop and investigate MOEMS displacement-pressure sensor for biological information monitoring. Developing computational periodical microstructure models using COMSOL Multiphysics modeling software for modal and shape analysis and implementation of these results for design MOEMS displacement-pressure sensor for biological information monitoring was performed. The micro manufacturing technology of periodical microstructure having good diffraction efficiency was proposed. Experimental setup for characterisation of optical properties of periodical microstructure used for design of displacement-pressure sensor was created. Pulsating human artery dynamic characteristics in this paper were analysed.

Methods of high current magnetic field generator for transcranial magnetic stimulation application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bouda, N. R.; Pritchard, J.; Weber, R. J.; Mina, M.

2015-05-01

This paper describes the design procedures and underlying concepts of a novel High Current Magnetic Field Generator (HCMFG) with adjustable pulse width for transcranial magnetic stimulation applications. This is achieved by utilizing two different switching devices, the MOSFET and insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT). Results indicate that currents as high as ±1200 A can be generated with inputs of +/-20 V. Special attention to tradeoffs between field generators utilizing IGBT circuits (HCMFG1) and MOSFET circuits (HCMFG2) was considered. The theory of operation, design, experimental results, and electronic setup are presented and analyzed.

Methods of high current magnetic field generator for transcranial magnetic stimulation application

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bouda, N. R., E-mail: nybouda@iastate.edu; Pritchard, J.; Weber, R. J.

This paper describes the design procedures and underlying concepts of a novel High Current Magnetic Field Generator (HCMFG) with adjustable pulse width for transcranial magnetic stimulation applications. This is achieved by utilizing two different switching devices, the MOSFET and insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT). Results indicate that currents as high as ±1200 A can be generated with inputs of +/−20 V. Special attention to tradeoffs between field generators utilizing IGBT circuits (HCMFG{sub 1}) and MOSFET circuits (HCMFG{sub 2}) was considered. The theory of operation, design, experimental results, and electronic setup are presented and analyzed.

Effects of cooling system parameters on heat transfer in PAFC stack. Ph.D. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abdul-Aziz, Ali A.

1985-01-01

Analytical and experimental study for the effects of cooling system parameters on the heat transfer and temperature distribution in the electrode plates of a phosphoric acid fuel-cell has been conducted. An experimental set-up that simulates the operating conditions prevailing in a phosphoric-acid fuel-cell stack was designed and constructed. The set-up was then used to measure the overall heat transfer coefficient, the thermal contact resistance, and the electrode temperature distribution for two different cooling plate configurations. Two types of cooling plate configurations, serpentine and straight, were tested. Air, water, and oil were used as coolants. Measurements for the heat transfer coefficient and the thermal contact resistance were made for various flow rates ranging from 16 to 88 Kg/hr, and stack clamping pressure ranging from O to 3448 Kpa. The experimental results for the overall heat transfer coefficient were utilized to derive mathematical relations for the overall heat transfer coefficient as a function of stack clamping pressure and Reynolds number for the three coolants. The empirically derived formulas were incorporated in a previously developed computer program to predict electrodes temperature distribution and the performance of the stack cooling system. The results obtained were then compared with those available in the literature. The comparison showed maximum deviation of +/- 11%.

Improving piezo actuators for nanopositioning tasks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seeliger, Martin; Gramov, Vassil; Götz, Bernt

2018-02-01

In recent years, numerous applications emerged on the market with seemingly contradicting demands. On one side, the structure size decreased while on the other side, the overall sample size and speed of operation increased. Although the principle usage of piezoelectric positioning solutions has become a standard in the field of micro- and nanopositioning, surface inspection and manipulation, piezosystem jena now enhanced the performance beyond simple control loop tuning and actuator design. In automated manufacturing machines, a given signal has to be tracked fast and precise. However, control systems naturally decrease the ability to follow this signal in real time. piezosystem jena developed a new signal feed forward system bypassing the PID control. This way, we could reduce signal tracking errors by a factor of three compared to a conventionally optimized PID control. Of course, PID-values still have to be adjusted to specific conditions, e.g. changing additional mass, to optimize the performance. This can now be done with a new automatic tuning tool designed to analyze the current setup, find the best fitting configuration, and also gather and display theoretical as well as experimental performance data. Thus, the control quality of a mechanical setup can be improved within a few minutes without the need of external calibration equipment. Furthermore, new mechanical optimization techniques that focus not only on the positioning device, but also take the whole setup into account, prevent parasitic motion down to a few nanometers.

An electromechanical, patient positioning system for head and neck radiotherapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ostyn, Mark; Dwyer, Thomas; Miller, Matthew; King, Paden; Sacks, Rachel; Cruikshank, Ross; Rosario, Melvin; Martinez, Daniel; Kim, Siyong; Yeo, Woon-Hong

2017-09-01

In cancer treatment with radiation, accurate patient setup is critical for proper dose delivery. Improper arrangement can lead to disease recurrence, permanent organ damage, or lack of disease control. While current immobilization equipment often helps for patient positioning, manual adjustment is required, involving iterative, time-consuming steps. Here, we present an electromechanical robotic system for improving patient setup in radiotherapy, specifically targeting head and neck cancer. This positioning system offers six degrees of freedom for a variety of applications in radiation oncology. An analytical calculation of inverse kinematics serves as fundamental criteria to design the system. Computational mechanical modeling and experimental study of radiotherapy compatibility and x-ray-based imaging demonstrates the device feasibility and reliability to be used in radiotherapy. An absolute positioning accuracy test in a clinical treatment room supports the clinical feasibility of the system.

Side-detecting optical fiber coated with Zn(OH)2 nanorods for ultraviolet sensing applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Azad, S.; Parvizi, R.; Sadeghi, E.

2017-09-01

This paper presents an improved coupling efficiency and side detecting of UV radiation induced by light scattering and luminescent features of Zn(OH)2 nanorods coated multimode optical fibers. Uniform and high density Zn(OH)2 nanorods were grown hydrothermally on the core of chemically etched multimode optical fibers. The prepared samples were characterized through x-ray diffraction patterns, scanning electron microscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The detecting technique was based on the intensity modulation of the side coupled light through the Zn(OH)2 nanorods. A simple and cost-effective UV radiation detecting setup has been designed. Experimentally estimated coupling efficiency of the proposed setup was obtained near 11%. The proposed device exhibited stable and reversible responses with a fast rising and decaying time of about 1.4 s and 0.85 s, respectively.

Status and Prospects of Hirfl Experiments on Nuclear Physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, H. S.; Zheng, C.; Xiao, G. Q.; Zhan, W. L.; Zhou, X. H.; Zhang, Y. H.; Sun, Z. Y.; Wang, J. S.; Gan, Z. G.; Huang, W. X.; Ma, X. W.

HIRFL is an accelerator complex consisting of 3 accelerators, 2 radioactive beams lines, 1 storage rings and a number of experimental setups. The research activities at HIRFL cover the fields of radio-biology, material science, atomic physics, and nuclear physics. This report mainly concentrates on the experiments of nuclear physics with the existing and planned experimental setups such as SHANS, RIBLL1, ETF, CSRe, PISA and HPLUS at HIRFL.

Response Surface Modeling of Combined-Cycle Propulsion Components using Computational Fluid Dynamics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Steffen, C. J., Jr.

2002-01-01

Three examples of response surface modeling with CFD are presented for combined cycle propulsion components. The examples include a mixed-compression-inlet during hypersonic flight, a hydrogen-fueled scramjet combustor during hypersonic flight, and a ducted-rocket nozzle during all-rocket flight. Three different experimental strategies were examined, including full factorial, fractionated central-composite, and D-optimal with embedded Plackett-Burman designs. The response variables have been confined to integral data extracted from multidimensional CFD results. Careful attention to uncertainty assessment and modeling bias has been addressed. The importance of automating experimental setup and effectively communicating statistical results are emphasized.

Including Finite Surface Span Effects in Empirical Jet-Surface Interaction Noise Models

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brown, Clifford A.

2016-01-01

The effect of finite span on the jet-surface interaction noise source and the jet mixing noise shielding and reflection effects is considered using recently acquired experimental data. First, the experimental setup and resulting data are presented with particular attention to the role of surface span on far-field noise. These effects are then included in existing empirical models that have previously assumed that all surfaces are semi-infinite. This extended abstract briefly describes the experimental setup and data leaving the empirical modeling aspects for the final paper.

Gas/Surface Interaction Study Applied to Si-based Materials Used in Driven Micro- and Nano-scale Devices

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

science and engineering. For example, by measuring the frequency shift of sensor oscillations, one can measure gas adsorption on the sensor surface...free-molecular regime with varied gas pressure. The measurement path of the experimental setup is schematically shown in Fig. 3.1. The sensor is...excited by the electric field between the sensor and fixed electrode by means of a specially designed system of self-induced oscillations. The

Experimental Setup to Assess Blast and Penetration-Induced Secondary Debris in a Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) Environment

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-11-01

Fig. 4 Collection pack with gelatin soap and synthetic gelatin ........................4 Fig. 5 Gelatin soap ...designed to hold 2 synthetic gelatin blocks or a combination of gelatin soap and synthetic gelatin for use as the collection medium (Fig. 4). Shelves...were constructed to support the synthetic gelatin and gelatin soap with dimensions of 25.4 cm wide × 25.4 cm deep. Each shelf was attached to the

Eye-in-Hand Manipulation for Remote Handling: Experimental Setup

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niu, Longchuan; Suominen, Olli; Aref, Mohammad M.; Mattila, Jouni; Ruiz, Emilio; Esque, Salvador

2018-03-01

A prototype for eye-in-hand manipulation in the context of remote handling in the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER)1 is presented in this paper. The setup consists of an industrial robot manipulator with a modified open control architecture and equipped with a pair of stereoscopic cameras, a force/torque sensor, and pneumatic tools. It is controlled through a haptic device in a mock-up environment. The industrial robot controller has been replaced by a single industrial PC running Xenomai that has a real-time connection to both the robot controller and another Linux PC running as the controller for the haptic device. The new remote handling control environment enables further development of advanced control schemes for autonomous and semi-autonomous manipulation tasks. This setup benefits from a stereovision system for accurate tracking of the target objects with irregular shapes. The overall environmental setup successfully demonstrates the required robustness and precision that remote handling tasks need.

Multipurpose setup for low-temperature conversion electron Mössbauer spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Augustyns, V.; Trekels, M.; Gunnlaugsson, H. P.; Masenda, H.; Temst, K.; Vantomme, A.; Pereira, L. M. C.

2017-05-01

We describe an experimental setup for conversion electron Mössbauer spectroscopy (CEMS) at low temperature. The setup is composed of a continuous flow cryostat (temperature range of 4.2-500 K), detector housing, three channel electron multipliers, and corresponding electronics. We demonstrate the capabilities of the setup with CEMS measurements performed on a sample consisting of a thin enriched 57Fe film, with a thickness of 20 nm, deposited on a silicon substrate. We also describe exchangeable adaptations (lid and sample holder) which extend the applicability of the setup to emission Mössbauer spectroscopy as well as measurements under an applied magnetic field.

National Ignition Facility Control and Information System Operational Tools

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Marshall, C D; Beeler, R G; Bowers, G A

The National Ignition Facility (NIF) in Livermore, California, is the world's highest-energy laser fusion system and one of the premier large scale scientific projects in the United States. The system is designed to setup and fire a laser shot to a fusion ignition or high energy density target at rates up to a shot every 4 hours. NIF has 192 laser beams delivering up to 1.8 MJ of energy to a {approx}2 mm target that is planned to produce >100 billion atm of pressure and temperatures of >100 million degrees centigrade. NIF is housed in a ten-story building footprint themore » size of three football fields as shown in Fig. 1. Commissioning was recently completed and NIF will be formally dedicated at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory on May 29, 2009. The control system has 60,000 hardware controls points and employs 2 million lines of control system code. The control room has highly automated equipment setup prior to firing laser system shots. This automation has a data driven implementation that is conducive to dynamic modification and optimization depending on the shot goals defined by the end user experimenters. NIF has extensive facility machine history and infrastructure maintenance workflow tools both under development and deployed. An extensive operational tools suite has been developed to support facility operations including experimental shot setup, machine readiness, machine health and safety, and machine history. The following paragraphs discuss the current state and future upgrades to these four categories of operational tools.« less

Numerical simulation of a relaxation test designed to fit a quasi-linear viscoelastic model for temporomandibular joint discs.

PubMed

Commisso, Maria S; Martínez-Reina, Javier; Mayo, Juana; Domínguez, Jaime

2013-02-01

The main objectives of this work are: (a) to introduce an algorithm for adjusting the quasi-linear viscoelastic model to fit a material using a stress relaxation test and (b) to validate a protocol for performing such tests in temporomandibular joint discs. This algorithm is intended for fitting the Prony series coefficients and the hyperelastic constants of the quasi-linear viscoelastic model by considering that the relaxation test is performed with an initial ramp loading at a certain rate. This algorithm was validated before being applied to achieve the second objective. Generally, the complete three-dimensional formulation of the quasi-linear viscoelastic model is very complex. Therefore, it is necessary to design an experimental test to ensure a simple stress state, such as uniaxial compression to facilitate obtaining the viscoelastic properties. This work provides some recommendations about the experimental setup, which are important to follow, as an inadequate setup could produce a stress state far from uniaxial, thus, distorting the material constants determined from the experiment. The test considered is a stress relaxation test using unconfined compression performed in cylindrical specimens extracted from temporomandibular joint discs. To validate the experimental protocol, the test was numerically simulated using finite-element modelling. The disc was arbitrarily assigned a set of quasi-linear viscoelastic constants (c1) in the finite-element model. Another set of constants (c2) was obtained by fitting the results of the simulated test with the proposed algorithm. The deviation of constants c2 from constants c1 measures how far the stresses are from the uniaxial state. The effects of the following features of the experimental setup on this deviation have been analysed: (a) the friction coefficient between the compression plates and the specimen (which should be as low as possible); (b) the portion of the specimen glued to the compression plates (smaller areas glued are better); and (c) the variation in the thickness of the specimen. The specimen's faces should be parallel to ensure a uniaxial stress state. However, this is not possible in real specimens, and a criterion must be defined to accept the specimen in terms of the specimen's thickness variation and the deviation of the fitted constants arising from such a variation.

A simple Lissajous curves experimental setup

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Şahin Kızılcık, Hasan; Damlı, Volkan

2018-05-01

The aim of this study is to develop an experimental setup to produce Lissajous curves. The setup was made using a smartphone, a powered speaker (computer speaker), a balloon, a laser pointer and a piece of mirror. Lissajous curves are formed as follows: a piece of mirror is attached to a balloon. The balloon is vibrated with the sound signal provided by the speaker that is connected to a smartphone. The laser beam is reflected off the mirror and the reflection is shaped as a Lissajous curve. Because of the intersection of two frequencies (frequency of the sound signal and natural vibration frequency of the balloon), these curves are formed. They can be used to measure the ratio of frequencies.

An experimental setup for the simultaneous measurement of thermoelectric power of two samples from 77 K to 500 K.

PubMed

Tripathi, T S; Bala, M; Asokan, K

2014-08-01

We report on an experimental setup for the simultaneous measurement of the thermoelectric power (TEP) of two samples in the temperature range from 77 K to 500 K using optimum electronic instruments. The setup consists of two rectangular copper bars in a bridge arrangement for sample mounting, two surface mount (SM) chip resistors for creating alternate temperature gradient, and a type E thermocouple in differential geometry for gradient temperature (ΔT) measurement across the samples. In addition, a diode arrangement has been made for the alternate heating of SM resistors using only one DC current source. The measurement accuracy of ΔT increases with the differential thermocouple arrangement. For the calibration of the setup, measurements of TEP on a high purity (99.99%) platinum wire and type K thermocouple wires Chromel and Alumel have been performed from 77 K to 500 K with respect to copper lead wires. Additionally, this setup can be utilized to calibrate an unknown sample against a sample of known absolute TEP.

An experimental setup for the simultaneous measurement of thermoelectric power of two samples from 77 K to 500 K

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Tripathi, T. S.; Bala, M.; Asokan, K.

2014-08-01

We report on an experimental setup for the simultaneous measurement of the thermoelectric power (TEP) of two samples in the temperature range from 77 K to 500 K using optimum electronic instruments. The setup consists of two rectangular copper bars in a bridge arrangement for sample mounting, two surface mount (SM) chip resistors for creating alternate temperature gradient, and a type E thermocouple in differential geometry for gradient temperature (ΔT) measurement across the samples. In addition, a diode arrangement has been made for the alternate heating of SM resistors using only one DC current source. The measurement accuracy of ΔTmore » increases with the differential thermocouple arrangement. For the calibration of the setup, measurements of TEP on a high purity (99.99%) platinum wire and type K thermocouple wires Chromel and Alumel have been performed from 77 K to 500 K with respect to copper lead wires. Additionally, this setup can be utilized to calibrate an unknown sample against a sample of known absolute TEP.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Loehle, Stefan; Lein, Sebastian

A revised scientific instrument to measure simultaneously kinetic temperatures of different atoms from their optical emission profile is reported. Emission lines are simultaneously detected using one single scanning Fabry-Perot-interferometer (FPI) for a combined spectroscopic setup to acquire different emission lines simultaneously. The setup consists in a commercial Czerny-Turner spectrometer configuration which is combined with a scanning Fabry-Perot interferometer. The fast image acquisition mode of an intensified charge coupled device camera allows the detection of a wavelength interval of interest continuously while acquiring the highly resolved line during the scan of the FPI ramp. Results using this new setup are presentedmore » for the simultaneous detection of atomic nitrogen and oxygen in a high enthalpy air plasma flow as used for atmospheric re-entry research and their respective kinetic temperatures derived from the measured line profiles. The paper presents the experimental setup, the calibration procedure, and an exemplary result. The determined temperatures are different, a finding that has been published so far as due to a drawback of the experimental setup of sequential measurements, and which has now to be investigated in more detail.« less

Dual-mode ultraflow access networks: a hybrid solution for the access bottleneck

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kazovsky, Leonid G.; Shen, Thomas Shunrong; Dhaini, Ahmad R.; Yin, Shuang; De Leenheer, Marc; Detwiler, Benjamin A.

2013-12-01

Optical Flow Switching (OFS) is a promising solution for large Internet data transfers. In this paper, we introduce UltraFlow Access, a novel optical access network architecture that offers dual-mode service to its end-users: IP and OFS. With UltraFlow Access, we design and implement a new dual-mode control plane and a new dual-mode network stack to ensure efficient connection setup and reliable and optimal data transmission. We study the impact of the UltraFlow system's design on the network throughput. Our experimental results show that with an optimized system design, near optimal (around 10 Gb/s) OFS data throughput can be attained when the line rate is 10Gb/s.

Design of a factorial experiment with randomization restrictions to assess medical device performance on vascular tissue

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Energy-based surgical scalpels are designed to efficiently transect and seal blood vessels using thermal energy to promote protein denaturation and coagulation. Assessment and design improvement of ultrasonic scalpel performance relies on both in vivo and ex vivo testing. The objective of this work was to design and implement a robust, experimental test matrix with randomization restrictions and predictive statistical power, which allowed for identification of those experimental variables that may affect the quality of the seal obtained ex vivo. Methods The design of the experiment included three factors: temperature (two levels); the type of solution used to perfuse the artery during transection (three types); and artery type (two types) resulting in a total of twelve possible treatment combinations. Burst pressures of porcine carotid and renal arteries sealed ex vivo were assigned as the response variable. Results The experimental test matrix was designed and carried out as a split-plot experiment in order to assess the contributions of several variables and their interactions while accounting for randomization restrictions present in the experimental setup. The statistical software package SAS was utilized and PROC MIXED was used to account for the randomization restrictions in the split-plot design. The combination of temperature, solution, and vessel type had a statistically significant impact on seal quality. Conclusions The design and implementation of a split-plot experimental test-matrix provided a mechanism for addressing the existing technical randomization restrictions of ex vivo ultrasonic scalpel performance testing, while preserving the ability to examine the potential effects of independent factors or variables. This method for generating the experimental design and the statistical analyses of the resulting data are adaptable to a wide variety of experimental problems involving large-scale tissue-based studies of medical or experimental device efficacy and performance. PMID:21599963

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nabeel A. Riza

The goals of the first six months of this project were to begin laying the foundations for both the SiC front-end optical chip fabrication techniques for high pressure gas species sensing as well as the design, assembly, and test of a portable high pressure high temperature calibration test cell chamber for introducing gas species. This calibration cell will be used in the remaining months for proposed first stage high pressure high temperature gas species sensor experimentation and data processing. All these goals have been achieved and are described in detail in the report. Both design process and diagrams for themore » mechanical elements as well as the optical systems are provided. Photographs of the fabricated calibration test chamber cell, the optical sensor setup with the calibration cell, the SiC sample chip holder, and relevant signal processing mathematics are provided. Initial experimental data from both the optical sensor and fabricated test gas species SiC chips is provided. The design and experimentation results are summarized to give positive conclusions on the proposed novel high temperature high pressure gas species detection optical sensor technology.« less

An industrial design solution for integrating NMR magnetic field sensors into an MRI scanner.

PubMed

Kennedy, Michael; Lee, Yoojin; Nagy, Zoltan

2018-08-01

Neuroimaging research relies on the skills of increasingly multidisciplinary individuals and often requires the installation and use of additional home-built or third-party equipment. The purpose of the present work was the safe, ergonomic, durable, and aesthetically pleasing installation of magnetic field monitoring equipment into a scanner, while keeping the setup compatible with standard operating procedures. An extensive set of steps was required to design a 3D printed solution to install a magnetic field camera into the eight-channel head coil of a 3T MRI scanner. First, the outer surface of the plastic coil housing was recreated into a 3D model, and the installation of the magnetic field sensors around this 3D model was performed in a virtual environment. The 3D printed solution was then assembled and tested for safety, reproducible performance, and image quality. The 3D printed solution holds the probes in stable positions and guides the necessary cables in an organized fashion and away from the volunteer. Assembly is easy and the solution is ergonomic, durable, and safe. We did not find excessive heating in the 3D printed parts, nor in the electronics, that they help to incorporate. The material used interferes minimally with transmit B1+ field. The design met all of the boundary conditions for a durable, safe, cost-effective, attractive, and functional installation. This work will provide the basis for installing the magnetic field sensors into other available head coils, and for designing the experimental setup for projects with varying experimental requirements. Magn Reson Med 80:833-839, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

AC-Induced Bias Potential Effect on Corrosion of Steels

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-02-05

induction, variable conduction Experimental Setup Super- martensitic stainless steel composition Analysis: C Mn Si Cr Ni Mo Cu N Typical 13 Cr ɘ.01 0.6... stainless steel used in pipelines. •Low carbon (ɘ.01): allows the formation of a “soft” martensite that is more resistant than standard martensitic ...Proposed AC Corrosion Models  AC Simulated Corrosion testing  Stainless steel pipe and coating  Cathodic protection  Experimental Setup  Preliminary

Development of an experimental setup for analyzing the influence of Magnus effect on the performance of airfoil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aktharuzzaman, Md; Sarker, Md. Samad; Safa, Wasiul; Sharah, Nahreen; Salam, Md. Abdus

2017-12-01

Magnus effect is a phenomenon where pressure difference is created according to Bernoulli's effect due to induced velocity changes caused by a rotating object in a fluid. Using this concept, the idea of delaying boundary layer separation on airfoil by providing moving surface boundary layer control has been developed. In order to analyze the influence of Magnus effect on the aerodynamic performance of an airfoil, there is no alternative of developing an experimental setup. This paper aims to develop such an experimental setup which will be capable of analyzing the influence of Magnus effect on both symmetric and asymmetric airfoils by placing a cylinder at the leading edge. To provide arrangements for a rotating cylinder at the leading edge of airfoil, necessary modifications and additions have been done in the test section of an AF100 subsonic wind tunnel.

Theory, design, and experimental verification of a reflectionless bianisotropic Huygens' metasurface for wide-angle refraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Michael; Abdo-Sánchez, Elena; Epstein, Ariel; Eleftheriades, George V.

2018-03-01

Huygens' metasurfaces are electrically thin devices which allow arbitrary field transformations. Beam refraction is among the first demonstrations of realized metasurfaces. As previously shown for extreme-angle refraction, control over only the electric impedance and magnetic admittance of the Huygens' metasurface proved insufficient to produce the desired reflectionless field transformation. To maintain zero reflections for wide refraction angles, magnetoelectric coupling between the electric and magnetic response of the metasurface, leading to bianisotropy, can be introduced. In this paper, we report the theory, design, and experimental characterization of a reflectionless bianisotropic metasurface for extreme-angle refraction of a normally incident plane wave towards 71.8° at 20 GHz. The theory and design of three-layer asymmetric bianisotropic unit cells are discussed. The realized printed circuit board structure was tested via full-wave simulations as well as experimental characterization. To experimentally verify the prototype, two setups were used. A quasi-optical experiment was conducted to assess the specular reflections of the metasurface, while a far-field antenna measurement characterized its refraction nature. The measurements verify that the fabricated metasurface has negligible reflections and the majority of the scattered power is refracted to the desired Floquet mode. This provides an experimental demonstration of a reflectionless wide-angle refracting metasurface using a bianisotropic Huygens' metasurface at microwave frequencies.

Computational simulations of frictional losses in pipe networks confirmed in experimental apparatusses designed by honors students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pohlman, Nicholas A.; Hynes, Eric; Kutz, April

2015-11-01

Lectures in introductory fluid mechanics at NIU are a combination of students with standard enrollment and students seeking honors credit for an enriching experience. Most honors students dread the additional homework problems or an extra paper assigned by the instructor. During the past three years, honors students of my class have instead collaborated to design wet-lab experiments for their peers to predict variable volume flow rates of open reservoirs driven by gravity. Rather than learn extra, the honors students learn the Bernoulli head-loss equation earlier to design appropriate systems for an experimental wet lab. Prior designs incorporated minor loss features such as sudden contraction or multiple unions and valves. The honors students from Spring 2015 expanded the repertoire of available options by developing large scale set-ups with multiple pipe networks that could be combined together to test the flexibility of the student team's computational programs. The engagement of bridging the theory with practice was appreciated by all of the students such that multiple teams were able to predict performance within 4% accuracy. The challenges, schedules, and cost estimates of incorporating the experimental lab into an introductory fluid mechanics course will be reported.

A Novel Computer-Based Set-Up to Study Movement Coordination in Human Ensembles

PubMed Central

Alderisio, Francesco; Lombardi, Maria; Fiore, Gianfranco; di Bernardo, Mario

2017-01-01

Existing experimental works on movement coordination in human ensembles mostly investigate situations where each subject is connected to all the others through direct visual and auditory coupling, so that unavoidable social interaction affects their coordination level. Here, we present a novel computer-based set-up to study movement coordination in human groups so as to minimize the influence of social interaction among participants and implement different visual pairings between them. In so doing, players can only take into consideration the motion of a designated subset of the others. This allows the evaluation of the exclusive effects on coordination of the structure of interconnections among the players in the group and their own dynamics. In addition, our set-up enables the deployment of virtual computer players to investigate dyadic interaction between a human and a virtual agent, as well as group synchronization in mixed teams of human and virtual agents. We show how this novel set-up can be employed to study coordination both in dyads and in groups over different structures of interconnections, in the presence as well as in the absence of virtual agents acting as followers or leaders. Finally, in order to illustrate the capabilities of the architecture, we describe some preliminary results. The platform is available to any researcher who wishes to unfold the mechanisms underlying group synchronization in human ensembles and shed light on its socio-psychological aspects. PMID:28649217

A practical model for pressure probe system response estimation (with review of existing models)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hall, B. F.; Povey, T.

2018-04-01

The accurate estimation of the unsteady response (bandwidth) of pneumatic pressure probe systems (probe, line and transducer volume) is a common practical problem encountered in the design of aerodynamic experiments. Understanding the bandwidth of the probe system is necessary to capture unsteady flow features accurately. Where traversing probes are used, the desired traverse speed and spatial gradients in the flow dictate the minimum probe system bandwidth required to resolve the flow. Existing approaches for bandwidth estimation are either complex or inaccurate in implementation, so probes are often designed based on experience. Where probe system bandwidth is characterized, it is often done experimentally, requiring careful experimental set-up and analysis. There is a need for a relatively simple but accurate model for estimation of probe system bandwidth. A new model is presented for the accurate estimation of pressure probe bandwidth for simple probes commonly used in wind tunnel environments; experimental validation is provided. An additional, simple graphical method for air is included for convenience.

Application of Particle Swarm Optimization in Computer Aided Setup Planning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kafashi, Sajad; Shakeri, Mohsen; Abedini, Vahid

2011-01-01

New researches are trying to integrate computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacturing (CAM) environments. The role of process planning is to convert the design specification into manufacturing instructions. Setup planning has a basic role in computer aided process planning (CAPP) and significantly affects the overall cost and quality of machined part. This research focuses on the development for automatic generation of setups and finding the best setup plan in feasible condition. In order to computerize the setup planning process, three major steps are performed in the proposed system: a) Extraction of machining data of the part. b) Analyzing and generation of all possible setups c) Optimization to reach the best setup plan based on cost functions. Considering workshop resources such as machine tool, cutter and fixture, all feasible setups could be generated. Then the problem is adopted with technological constraints such as TAD (tool approach direction), tolerance relationship and feature precedence relationship to have a completely real and practical approach. The optimal setup plan is the result of applying the PSO (particle swarm optimization) algorithm into the system using cost functions. A real sample part is illustrated to demonstrate the performance and productivity of the system.

HSCT noise reduction technology development at GE Aircraft Engines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Majjigi, Rudramuni K.

1992-01-01

The topics covered include the following: High Speed Civil Transport (HSCT) exhaust nozzle design approaches; GE aircraft engine (GEAE) HSCT acoustics research; 2DCD non-IVP suppressor ejector; key sensitivities from reference aircraft; acoustic experiments; aero-mixing experimental set-up; fluid shield nozzle; HSCT Mach 2.4 flade nozzle; noise prediction; nozzle concept for GE/Boeing joint test; scale model hot core flow path modified to prevent hub-choking CFL3-D solution; HSCT exhaust nozzle status; and key acoustic technology issues for HSCT's.

HSCT noise reduction technology development at GE Aircraft Engines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Majjigi, Rudramuni K.

1992-04-01

The topics covered include the following: High Speed Civil Transport (HSCT) exhaust nozzle design approaches; GE aircraft engine (GEAE) HSCT acoustics research; 2DCD non-IVP suppressor ejector; key sensitivities from reference aircraft; acoustic experiments; aero-mixing experimental set-up; fluid shield nozzle; HSCT Mach 2.4 flade nozzle; noise prediction; nozzle concept for GE/Boeing joint test; scale model hot core flow path modified to prevent hub-choking CFL3-D solution; HSCT exhaust nozzle status; and key acoustic technology issues for HSCT's.

Recent results and prospects for NA62 experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martellotti, Silvia; Aglieri Rinella, G.; Aliberti, R.; Ambrosino, F.; Ammendola, R.; Angelucci, B.; Antonelli, A.; Anzivino, G.; Arcidiacono, R.; Azhinenko, I.; Balev, S.; Barbanera, M.; Bendotti, J.; Biagioni, A.; Bician, L.; Biino, C.; Bizzeti, A.; Blazek, T.; Blik, A.; Bloch-Devaux, B.; Bolotov, V.; Bonaiuto, V.; Boretto, M.; Bragadireanu, M.; Britton, D.; Britvich, G.; Brunetti, M. B.; Bryman, D.; Bucci, F.; Butin, F.; Capitolo, E.; Capoccia, C.; Capussela, T.; Cassese, A.; Catinaccio, A.; Cecchetti, A.; Ceccucci, A.; Cenci, P.; Cerny, V.; Cerri, C.; Checcucci, B.; Chikilev, O.; Chiozzi, S.; Ciaranfi, R.; Collazuol, G.; Conovaloff, A.; Cooke, P.; Cooper, P.; Corradi, G.; Cortina Gil, E.; Costantini, F.; Cotorobai, F.; Cotta Ramusino, A.; Coward, D.; D'Agostini, G.; Dainton, J.; Dalpiaz, P.; Danielsson, H.; Degrange, J.; De Simone, N.; Di Filippo, D.; Di Lella, L.; Di Lorenzo, S.; Dixon, N.; Doble, N.; Dobrich, B.; Duk, V.; Elsha, V.; Engelfried, J.; Enik, T.; Estrada, N.; Falaleev, V.; Fantechi, R.; Fascianelli, V.; Federici, L.; Fedotov, S.; Fiorini, M.; Fry, J.; Fu, J.; Fucci, A.; Fulton, L.; Gallorini, S.; Galeotti, S.; Gamberini, E.; Gatignon, L.; Georgiev, G.; Gianoli, A.; Giorgi, M.; Giudici, S.; Glonti, L.; Goncalves Martins, A.; Gonnella, F.; Goudzovski, E.; Guida, R.; Gushchin, E.; Hahn, F.; Hallgren, B.; Heath, H.; Herman, F.; Husek, T.; Hutanu, O.; Hutchcroft, D.; Iacobuzio, L.; Iacopini, E.; Imbergamo, E.; Jamet, O.; Jarron, P.; Jones, E.; Kampf, K.; Kaplon, J.; Kekelidze, V.; Kholodenko, S.; Khoriauli, G.; Khotyantsev, A.; Khudyakov, A.; Kiryushin, Yu.; Kleimenova, A.; Kleinknecht, K.; Kluge, A.; Koval, M.; Kozhuharov, V.; Krivda, M.; Kucerova, Z.; Kudenko, Y.; Kunze, J.; Lamanna, G.; Latino, G.; Lazzeroni, C.; Lehmann-Miotto, G.; Lenci, R.; Lenti, M.; Leonardi, E.; Lichard, P.; Lietava, R.; Litov, L.; Lollini, R.; Lomidze, D.; Lonardo, A.; Lupi, M.; Lurkin, N.; McCormick, K.; Madigozhin, D.; Maire, G.; Mandeiro, C.; Mannelli, I.; Mannocchi, G.; Mapelli, A.; Marchetto, F.; Marchevski, R.; Martellotti, S.; Massarotti, P.; Massri, K.; Matak, P.; Maurice, E.; Mefodev, A.; Menichetti, E.; Minucci, E.; Mirra, M.; Misheva, M.; Molokanova, N.; Morant, J.; Morel, M.; Moulson, M.; Movchan, S.; Munday, D.; Napolitano, M.; Neri, I.; Newson, F.; Norton, A.; Noy, M.; Nuessle, G.; Numao, T.; Obraztsov, V.; Ostankov, A.; Padolski, S.; Page, R.; Palladino, V.; Paoluzzi, G.; Parkinson, C.; Pedreschi, E.; Pepe, M.; Perez Gomez, F.; Perrin-Terrin, M.; Peruzzo, L.; Petrov, P.; Petrucci, F.; Piandani, R.; Piccini, M.; Pietreanu, D.; Pinzino, J.; Polenkevich, I.; Pontisso, L.; Potrebenikov, Yu.; Protopopescu, D.; Raffaelli, F.; Raggi, M.; Riedler, P.; Romano, A.; Rubin, P.; Ruggiero, G.; Russo, V.; Ryjov, V.; Salamon, A.; Salina, G.; Samsonov, V.; Santoni, C.; Saracino, G.; Sargeni, F.; Semenov, V.; Sergi, A.; Serra, M.; Shaikhiev, A.; Shkarovskiy, S.; Skillicorn, I.; Soldi, D.; Sotnikov, A.; Sougonyaev, V.; Sozzi, M.; Spadaro, T.; Spinella, F.; Staley, R.; Sturgess, A.; Sutcliffe, P.; Szilasi, N.; Tagnani, D.; Trilov, S.; Valdata-Nappi, M.; Valente, P.; Vasile, M.; Vassilieva, T.; Velghe, B.; Veltri, M.; Venditti, S.; Vicini, P.; Volpe, R.; Vormstein, M.; Wahl, H.; Wanke, R.; Wertelaers, P.; Winhart, A.; Winston, R.; Wrona, B.; Yushchenko, O.; Zamkovsky, M.; Zinchenko, A.; NA62 Collaboration

2017-04-01

The K+ →π+ ν ν ‾ decay is theoretically one of the cleanest meson decays and so a good place to look for indirect effects of new physics complementary to LHC searches. The NA62 experiment at CERN is designed to measure the branching ratio of this decay with 10% precision. NA62 was commissioned in October 2014, took data in pilot runs in 2014 and 2015. The NA62 experimental setup is illustrated and data quality is reported.

Dense cold baryonic matter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stavinskiy, A. V.

2017-09-01

A possibility of studying cold nuclear matter on the Nuclotron-NICA facility at baryonic densities characteristic of and higher than at the center of a neutron star is considered based on the data from cumulative processes. A special rare-event kinematic trigger for collisions of relativistic ions is proposed for effective selection of events accompanied by production of dense baryonic systems. Possible manifestations of new matter states under these unusual conditions and an experimental program for their study are discussed. Various experimental setups are proposed for these studies, and a possibility of using experimental setups at the Nuclotron-NICA facility for this purpose is considered.

Nano-Ignition Torch Applied to Cryogenic H2/O2 Coaxial Jet

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-01-04

developed and ignition of liquid fuel sprays by the torch has been achieved. In this report, we will describe the experimental procedure for producing...ignition that is induced by a compact Xe-flash, including the results for photoignition of a simple fuel spray in air as well as ignition of a coaxial...window. Experimental Setup for Fuel Spray Ignition Three different setups were utilized for the fuel ignition experiments. The first one was used

The performance of cleaner wrasse, Labroides dimidiatus, in a reversal learning task varies across experimental paradigms.

PubMed

Gingins, Simon; Marcadier, Fanny; Wismer, Sharon; Krattinger, Océane; Quattrini, Fausto; Bshary, Redouan; Binning, Sandra A

2018-01-01

Testing performance in controlled laboratory experiments is a powerful tool for understanding the extent and evolution of cognitive abilities in non-human animals. However, cognitive testing is prone to a number of potential biases, which, if unnoticed or unaccounted for, may affect the conclusions drawn. We examined whether slight modifications to the experimental procedure and apparatus used in a spatial task and reversal learning task affected performance outcomes in the bluestreak cleaner wrasse, Labroides dimidiatus (hereafter "cleaners"). Using two-alternative forced-choice tests, fish had to learn to associate a food reward with a side (left or right) in their holding aquarium. Individuals were tested in one of four experimental treatments that differed slightly in procedure and/or physical set-up. Cleaners from all four treatment groups were equally able to solve the initial spatial task. However, groups differed in their ability to solve the reversal learning task: no individuals solved the reversal task when tested in small tanks with a transparent partition separating the two options, whereas over 50% of individuals solved the task when performed in a larger tank, or with an opaque partition. These results clearly show that seemingly insignificant details to the experimental set-up matter when testing performance in a spatial task and might significantly influence the outcome of experiments. These results echo previous calls for researchers to exercise caution when designing methodologies for cognition tasks to avoid misinterpretations.

First measurement with a new setup for low-energy Coulomb excitation studies at INFN LNL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rocchini, M.; Hadyńska-Klȩk, K.; Nannini, A.; Valiente-Dobón, J. J.; Goasduff, A.; Testov, D.; John, P. R.; Mengoni, D.; Zielińska, M.; Bazzacco, D.; Benzoni, G.; Boso, A.; Cocconi, P.; Chiari, M.; Doherty, D. T.; Galtarossa, F.; Jaworski, G.; Komorowska, M.; Matejska-Minda, M.; Melon, B.; Menegazzo, R.; Napiorkowski, P.; Napoli, D. R.; Ottanelli, M.; Perego, A.; Ramina, L.; Rampazzo, M.; Recchia, F.; Riccetto, S.; Rosso, D.; Siciliano, M.; Sona, P.

2017-07-01

A new segmented particle detector, SPIDER, has been designed to be used as an ancillary device with the GALILEO γ-ray spectrometer, as well as with other multi-detector γ-ray arrays that will be available at LNL in the future (e.g. AGATA). To commission the SPIDER-GALILEO experimental setup, a multi-step Coulomb excitation experiment was carried out with a 240 MeV beam of 66Zn produced by the Tandem-XTU accelerator at INFN Laboratori Nazionali di Legnaro. The measured particle and γ-ray spectra are compared with the results of detailed GEANT4 simulations which used the Coulomb excitation cross sections, estimated with the computer code GOSIA, as an input. The preliminary results indicate that precise transition probabilities will be obtained which are essential for solving discrepancies reported in the literature for this nucleus.

The new ClusterTrap setup

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martinez, F.; Marx, G.; Schweikhard, L.; Vass, A.; Ziegler, F.

2011-07-01

ClusterTrap has been designed to investigate properties of atomic clusters in the gas phase with particular emphasis on the dependence on the cluster size and charge state. The combination of cluster source, Penning trap and time-of-flight mass spectrometry allows a variety of experimental schemes including collision-induced dissociation, photo-dissociation, further ionization by electron impact, and electron attachment. Due to the storage capability of the trap extended-delay reaction experiments can be performed. Several recent modifications have resulted in an improved setup. In particular, an electrostatic quadrupole deflector allows the coupling of several sources or detectors to the Penning trap. Furthermore, a linear radio-frequency quadrupole trap has been added for accumulation and ion bunching and by switching the potential of a drift tube the kinetic energy of the cluster ions can be adjusted on their way towards or from the Penning trap. Recently, experiments on multiply negatively charged clusters have been resumed.

Note: Setup for chemical atmospheric control during in situ grazing incidence X-ray scattering of printed thin films

DOE PAGES

Pröller, Stephan; Moseguí González, Daniel; Zhu, Chenhuii; ...

2017-06-01

In order to tailor the assembling of polymers and organic molecules, a deeper understanding of the kinetics involved in thin film production is necessary. While post-production characterization only provides insight on the final film structure, more sophisticated experimental setups are needed to probe the structure formation processes in situ during deposition. The drying kinetics of a deposited organic thin film strongly influences the assembling process on the nanometer scale. Lastly, this work presents an experimental setup that enables fine control of the atmosphere composition surrounding the sample during slot die coating, while simultaneously probing the film formation kinetics using inmore » situ grazing incidence X-ray scattering and spectroscopy.« less

Curvature sensor for ocular wavefront measurement.

PubMed

Díaz-Doutón, Fernando; Pujol, Jaume; Arjona, Montserrat; Luque, Sergio O

2006-08-01

We describe a new wavefront sensor for ocular aberration determination, based on the curvature sensing principle, which adapts the classical system used in astronomy for the living eye's measurements. The actual experimental setup is presented and designed following a process guided by computer simulations to adjust the design parameters for optimal performance. We present results for artificial and real young eyes, compared with the Hartmann-Shack estimations. Both methods show a similar performance for these cases. This system will allow for the measurement of higher order aberrations than the currently used wavefront sensors in situations in which they are supposed to be significant, such as postsurgery eyes.

Design of two blackbody sources for millimeter and sub-millimeter wave Fourier transform spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colin, Angel

2014-03-01

This paper describes an experimental setup for the spectral calibration of bolometric detectors used in radioastronomy. The system is composed of a Martin-Puplett interferometer with two identical artificial blackbody sources operating in the vacuum mode at 77 K and 300 K simultaneously. One source is integrated into a liquid nitrogen cryostat, and the other one into a vacuum chamber at room temperature. The sources were designed with a combination of conical with cylindrical geometries thus forming an orthogonal configuration to match the internal optics of the interfermometer. With a simple mathematical model we estimated emissivities of ε 0.995 for each source.

Simulation and optimization of a pulsating heat pipe using artificial neural network and genetic algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jokar, Ali; Godarzi, Ali Abbasi; Saber, Mohammad; Shafii, Mohammad Behshad

2016-11-01

In this paper, a novel approach has been presented to simulate and optimize the pulsating heat pipes (PHPs). The used pulsating heat pipe setup was designed and constructed for this study. Due to the lack of a general mathematical model for exact analysis of the PHPs, a method has been applied for simulation and optimization using the natural algorithms. In this way, the simulator consists of a kind of multilayer perceptron neural network, which is trained by experimental results obtained from our PHP setup. The results show that the complex behavior of PHPs can be successfully described by the non-linear structure of this simulator. The input variables of the neural network are input heat flux to evaporator (q″), filling ratio (FR) and inclined angle (IA) and its output is thermal resistance of PHP. Finally, based upon the simulation results and considering the heat pipe's operating constraints, the optimum operating point of the system is obtained by using genetic algorithm (GA). The experimental results show that the optimum FR (38.25 %), input heat flux to evaporator (39.93 W) and IA (55°) that obtained from GA are acceptable.

Impact of different thickness of the smooth heated surface on flow boiling heat transfer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strąk, Kinga; Piasecka, Magdalena

2018-06-01

This paper presents a comparison of the performance of three smooth heated surfaces with different thicknesses. Analysis was carried out on an experimental setup for flow boiling heat transfer. The most important element of the setup was the test section with a rectangular minichannel, 1.7 mm deep, 16 mm wide and 180 mm long, oriented vertically. The heated element for the FC-72 Fluorinert flowing in the minichannel was designated as a Haynes-230 alloy plate (0.10 mm and 0.45 mm thick) or a Hastelloy X alloy plate (0.65 mm thick). Infrared thermography was used to measure the temperature of the outer plate surface. The local values of the heat transfer coefficient for stationary state conditions were calculated using a simple one-dimensional method. The experimental results were presented as the relationship between the heat transfer coefficients in the subcooled boiling region and the distance along the minichannel length and boiling curves. The highest local heat transfer coefficients were recorded for the surface of 0.10 mm thick heated plate at the outlet and 0.45 mm thick plate at the minichannel inlet. All boiling curves were typical in shape.

Analysis of Invasion Dynamics of Matrix-Embedded Cells in a Multisample Format.

PubMed

Van Troys, Marleen; Masuzzo, Paola; Huyck, Lynn; Bakkali, Karima; Waterschoot, Davy; Martens, Lennart; Ampe, Christophe

2018-01-01

In vitro tests of cancer cell invasion are the "first line" tools of preclinical researchers for screening the multitude of chemical compounds or cell perturbations that may aid in halting or treating cancer malignancy. In order to have predictive value or to contribute to designing personalized treatment regimes, these tests need to take into account the cancer cell environment and measure effects on invasion in sufficient detail. The in vitro invasion assays presented here are a trade-off between feasibility in a multisample format and mimicking the complexity of the tumor microenvironment. They allow testing multiple samples and conditions in parallel using 3D-matrix-embedded cells and deal with the heterogeneous behavior of an invading cell population in time. We describe the steps to take, the technical problems to tackle and useful software tools for the entire workflow: from the experimental setup to the quantification of the invasive capacity of the cells. The protocol is intended to guide researchers to standardize experimental set-ups and to annotate their invasion experiments in sufficient detail. In addition, it provides options for image processing and a solution for storage, visualization, quantitative analysis, and multisample comparison of acquired cell invasion data.

Software-aided automatic laser optoporation and transfection of cells

PubMed Central

Georg Breunig, Hans; Uchugonova, Aisada; Batista, Ana; König, Karsten

2015-01-01

Optoporation, the permeabilization of a cell membrane by laser pulses, has emerged as a powerful non-invasive and highly efficient technique to induce transfection of cells. However, the usual tedious manual targeting of individual cells significantly limits the addressable cell number. To overcome this limitation, we present an experimental setup with custom-made software control, for computer-automated cell optoporation. The software evaluates the image contrast of cell contours, automatically designates cell locations for laser illumination, centres those locations in the laser focus, and executes the illumination. By software-controlled meandering of the sample stage, in principle all cells in a typical cell culture dish can be targeted without further user interaction. The automation allows for a significant increase in the number of treatable cells compared to a manual approach. For a laser illumination duration of 100 ms, 7-8 positions on different cells can be targeted every second inside the area of the microscope field of view. The experimental capabilities of the setup are illustrated in experiments with Chinese hamster ovary cells. Furthermore, the influence of laser power is discussed, with mention on post-treatment cell survival and optoporation-efficiency rates. PMID:26053047

Eco-evolutionary Red Queen dynamics regulate biodiversity in a metabolite-driven microbial system.

PubMed

Bonachela, Juan A; Wortel, Meike T; Stenseth, Nils Chr

2017-12-15

The Red Queen Hypothesis proposes that perpetual co-evolution among organisms can result from purely biotic drivers. After more than four decades, there is no satisfactory understanding as to which mechanisms trigger Red Queen dynamics or their implications for ecosystem features such as biodiversity. One reason for such a knowledge gap is that typical models are complicated theories where limit cycles represent an idealized Red Queen, and therefore cannot be used to devise experimental setups. Here, we bridge this gap by introducing a simple model for microbial systems able to show Red Queen dynamics. We explore diverse biotic sources that can drive the emergence of the Red Queen and that have the potential to be found in nature or to be replicated in the laboratory. Our model enables an analytical understanding of how Red Queen dynamics emerge in our setup, and the translation of model terms and phenomenology into general underlying mechanisms. We observe, for example, that in our system the Red Queen offers opportunities for the increase of biodiversity by facilitating challenging conditions for intraspecific dominance, whereas stasis tends to homogenize the system. Our results can be used to design and engineer experimental microbial systems showing Red Queen dynamics.

Measurement of 235U(n,n'γ) and 235U(n,2nγ) reaction cross sections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kerveno, M.; Thiry, J. C.; Bacquias, A.; Borcea, C.; Dessagne, P.; Drohé, J. C.; Goriely, S.; Hilaire, S.; Jericha, E.; Karam, H.; Negret, A.; Pavlik, A.; Plompen, A. J. M.; Romain, P.; Rouki, C.; Rudolf, G.; Stanoiu, M.

2013-02-01

The design of generation IV nuclear reactors and the studies of new fuel cycles require knowledge of the cross sections of various nuclear reactions. Our research is focused on (n,xnγ) reactions occurring in these new reactors. The aim is to measure unknown cross sections and to reduce the uncertainty on present data for reactions and isotopes of interest for transmutation or advanced reactors. The present work studies the 235U(n,n'γ) and 235U(n,2nγ) reactions in the fast neutron energy domain (up to 20 MeV). The experiments were performed with the Geel electron linear accelerator GELINA, which delivers a pulsed white neutron beam. The time characteristics enable measuring neutron energies with the time-of-flight (TOF) technique. The neutron induced reactions [in this case inelastic scattering and (n,2n) reactions] are identified by on-line prompt γ spectroscopy with an experimental setup including four high-purity germanium (HPGe) detectors. A fission ionization chamber is used to monitor the incident neutron flux. The experimental setup and analysis methods are presented and the model calculations performed with the TALYS-1.2 code are discussed.

Design and evaluation of bilayered buccal film preparations for local administration of lidocaine hydrochloride.

PubMed

Preis, Maren; Woertz, Christina; Schneider, Katharina; Kukawka, Jennifer; Broscheit, Jens; Roewer, Norbert; Breitkreutz, Jörg

2014-04-01

Bilayered oromucosal film preparations (buccal films) offer a promising way to enable drug administration via the oral cavity. Adding a non-soluble or slowly eroding/dissolving backing layer to a mucoadhesive drug-loaded layer enables unidirectional drug delivery. The aim of this study was to investigate different approaches to the manufacture of bilayered films and to examine their properties by applying different characterization methods including an optimized experimental setup for the study of drug release from bilayered films. A solvent suitability study was performed screening over 15 polymers with respect to their feasibility for viscous film formation for film preparation by solvent casting method. Two methods (double-casting and pasting) were found as suitable methods for bilayered film manufacturing. Results from drug release experiments indicated that slowly eroding hypromellose backing layer films revealed the best shielding of the drug-loaded layer to enable unidirectional drug release. In summary, manufacturing of bilayered films using the described methods was feasible. Furthermore, the use of an optimized experimental setup for drug dissolution studies enabled monitoring of drug release without delays in sampling. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Six-flow operations for catalyst development in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis: Bridging the gap between high-throughput experimentation and extensive product evaluation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sartipi, Sina, E-mail: S.Sartipi@tudelft.nl, E-mail: J.Gascon@tudelft.nl; Jansma, Harrie; Bosma, Duco

2013-12-15

Design and operation of a “six-flow fixed-bed microreactor” setup for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) is described. The unit consists of feed and mixing, flow division, reaction, separation, and analysis sections. The reactor system is made of five heating blocks with individual temperature controllers, assuring an identical isothermal zone of at least 10 cm along six fixed-bed microreactor inserts (4 mm inner diameter). Such a lab-scale setup allows running six experiments in parallel, under equal feed composition, reaction temperature, and conditions of separation and analysis equipment. It permits separate collection of wax and liquid samples (from each flow line), allowing operation with highmore » productivities of C5+ hydrocarbons. The latter is crucial for a complete understanding of FTS product compositions and will represent an advantage over high-throughput setups with more than ten flows where such instrumental considerations lead to elevated equipment volume, cost, and operation complexity. The identical performance (of the six flows) under similar reaction conditions was assured by testing a same catalyst batch, loaded in all microreactors.« less

PSpice Modeling of a Sandwich Piezoelectric Ceramic Ultrasonic Transducer in Longitudinal Vibration

PubMed Central

Wei, Xiaoyuan; Yang, Yuan; Yao, Wenqing; Zhang, Lei

2017-01-01

Sandwiched piezoelectric transducers are widely used, especially in high power applications. For more convenient analysis and design, a PSpice lossy model of sandwiched piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers in longitudinal vibration is proposed by means of the one-dimensional wave and transmission line theories. With the proposed model, the resonance and antiresonance frequencies are obtained, and it is shown that the simulations and measurements have good consistency. For the purpose of further verification the accuracy and application of the PSpice model, a pitch-catch setup and an experimental platform are built. They include two sandwiched piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers and two aluminum cylinders whose lengths are 20 mm and 100 mm respectively. Based on this pitch-catch setup, the impedance and transient analysis are performed. Compared with the measured results, it is shown that the simulated results have good consistency. In addition, the conclusion can be drawn that the optimal excitation frequency for the pitch-catch setup is not necessarily the resonance frequency of ultrasonic transducers, because the resonance frequency is obtained under no load. The proposed PSpice model of the sandwiched piezoelectric transducer is more conveniently applied to combine with other circuits such as driving circuits, filters, amplifiers, and so on. PMID:28973996

PSpice Modeling of a Sandwich Piezoelectric Ceramic Ultrasonic Transducer in Longitudinal Vibration.

PubMed

Wei, Xiaoyuan; Yang, Yuan; Yao, Wenqing; Zhang, Lei

2017-09-30

Sandwiched piezoelectric transducers are widely used, especially in high power applications. For more convenient analysis and design, a PSpice lossy model of sandwiched piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers in longitudinal vibration is proposed by means of the one-dimensional wave and transmission line theories. With the proposed model, the resonance and antiresonance frequencies are obtained, and it is shown that the simulations and measurements have good consistency. For the purpose of further verification the accuracy and application of the PSpice model, a pitch-catch setup and an experimental platform are built. They include two sandwiched piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers and two aluminum cylinders whose lengths are 20 mm and 100 mm respectively. Based on this pitch-catch setup, the impedance and transient analysis are performed. Compared with the measured results, it is shown that the simulated results have good consistency. In addition, the conclusion can be drawn that the optimal excitation frequency for the pitch-catch setup is not necessarily the resonance frequency of ultrasonic transducers, because the resonance frequency is obtained under no load. The proposed PSpice model of the sandwiched piezoelectric transducer is more conveniently applied to combine with other circuits such as driving circuits, filters, amplifiers, and so on.

On the comparison of stochastic model predictive control strategies applied to a hydrogen-based microgrid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Velarde, P.; Valverde, L.; Maestre, J. M.; Ocampo-Martinez, C.; Bordons, C.

2017-03-01

In this paper, a performance comparison among three well-known stochastic model predictive control approaches, namely, multi-scenario, tree-based, and chance-constrained model predictive control is presented. To this end, three predictive controllers have been designed and implemented in a real renewable-hydrogen-based microgrid. The experimental set-up includes a PEM electrolyzer, lead-acid batteries, and a PEM fuel cell as main equipment. The real experimental results show significant differences from the plant components, mainly in terms of use of energy, for each implemented technique. Effectiveness, performance, advantages, and disadvantages of these techniques are extensively discussed and analyzed to give some valid criteria when selecting an appropriate stochastic predictive controller.

Ikeda-like chaos on a dynamically filtered supercontinuum light source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chembo, Yanne K.; Jacquot, Maxime; Dudley, John M.; Larger, Laurent

2016-08-01

We demonstrate temporal chaos in a color-selection mechanism from the visible spectrum of a supercontinuum light source. The color-selection mechanism is governed by an acousto-optoelectronic nonlinear delayed-feedback scheme modeled by an Ikeda-like equation. Initially motivated by the design of a broad audience live demonstrator in the framework of the International Year of Light 2015, the setup also provides a different experimental tool to investigate the dynamical complexity of delayed-feedback dynamics. Deterministic hyperchaos is analyzed here from the experimental time series. A projection method identifies the delay parameter, for which the chaotic strange attractor originally evolving in an infinite-dimensional phase space can be revealed in a two-dimensional subspace.

Optical fabrication of large area photonic microstructures by spliced lens

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jin, Wentao; Song, Meng; Zhang, Xuehua; Yin, Li; Li, Hong; Li, Lin

2018-05-01

We experimentally demonstrate a convenient approach to fabricate large area photorefractive photonic microstructures by a spliced lens device. Large area two-dimensional photonic microstructures are optically induced inside an iron-doped lithium niobate crystal. The experimental setups of our method are relatively compact and stable without complex alignment devices. It can be operated in almost any optical laboratories. We analyze the induced triangular lattice microstructures by plane wave guiding, far-field diffraction pattern imaging and Brillouin-zone spectroscopy. By designing the spliced lens appropriately, the method can be easily extended to fabricate other complex large area photonic microstructures, such as quasicrystal microstructures. Induced photonic microstructures can be fixed or erased and re-recorded in the photorefractive crystal.

Multiscale free-space optical interconnects for intrachip global communication: motivation, analysis, and experimental validation.

PubMed

McFadden, Michael J; Iqbal, Muzammil; Dillon, Thomas; Nair, Rohit; Gu, Tian; Prather, Dennis W; Haney, Michael W

2006-09-01

The use of optical interconnects for communication between points on a microchip is motivated by system-level interconnect modeling showing the saturation of metal wire capacity at the global layer. Free-space optical solutions are analyzed for intrachip communication at the global layer. A multiscale solution comprising microlenses, etched compound slope microprisms, and a curved mirror is shown to outperform a single-scale alternative. Microprisms are designed and fabricated and inserted into an optical setup apparatus to experimentally validate the concept. The multiscale free-space system is shown to have the potential to provide the bandwidth density and configuration flexibility required for global communication in future generations of microchips.

Improvement of heat transfer by means of ultrasound: Application to a double-tube heat exchanger.

PubMed

Legay, M; Simony, B; Boldo, P; Gondrexon, N; Le Person, S; Bontemps, A

2012-11-01

A new kind of ultrasonically-assisted heat exchanger has been designed, built and studied. It can be seen as a vibrating heat exchanger. A comprehensive description of the overall experimental set-up is provided, i.e. of the test rig and the acquisition system. Data acquisition and processing are explained step-by-step with a detailed example of graph obtained and how, from these experimental data, energy balance is calculated on the heat exchanger. It is demonstrated that ultrasound can be used efficiently as a heat transfer enhancement technique, even in such complex systems as heat exchangers. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Forces between permanent magnets: experiments and model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

González, Manuel I.

2017-03-01

This work describes a very simple, low-cost experimental setup designed for measuring the force between permanent magnets. The experiment consists of placing one of the magnets on a balance, attaching the other magnet to a vertical height gauge, aligning carefully both magnets and measuring the load on the balance as a function of the gauge reading. A theoretical model is proposed to compute the force, assuming uniform magnetisation and based on laws and techniques accessible to undergraduate students. A comparison between the model and the experimental results is made, and good agreement is found at all distances investigated. In particular, it is also found that the force behaves as r -4 at large distances, as expected.

Polarization analysis of diamond subwavelength gratings acting as space-variant birefringent elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piron, P.; Vargas Catalan, E.; Karlsson, M.

2018-02-01

Subwavelength gratings are gratings with a period smaller than the incident wavelength. They only allow the zeroth order of diffraction, they possess form birefringence and they can be modeled as birefringent plates. In this paper, we present the first results of an experimental method designed to measure their polarization properties. The method consists in measuring the variation of the light transmitted through two linear polarizers with the subwavelength component between them for several orientations of the polarizers. In this paper, the basic principles of the method are introduced and the experimental setup is presented. Several types of components are numerically studied and the optical measurements of one component are presented.

Quantum Experiments and Graphs: Multiparty States as Coherent Superpositions of Perfect Matchings.

PubMed

Krenn, Mario; Gu, Xuemei; Zeilinger, Anton

2017-12-15

We show a surprising link between experimental setups to realize high-dimensional multipartite quantum states and graph theory. In these setups, the paths of photons are identified such that the photon-source information is never created. We find that each of these setups corresponds to an undirected graph, and every undirected graph corresponds to an experimental setup. Every term in the emerging quantum superposition corresponds to a perfect matching in the graph. Calculating the final quantum state is in the #P-complete complexity class, thus it cannot be done efficiently. To strengthen the link further, theorems from graph theory-such as Hall's marriage problem-are rephrased in the language of pair creation in quantum experiments. We show explicitly how this link allows one to answer questions about quantum experiments (such as which classes of entangled states can be created) with graph theoretical methods, and how to potentially simulate properties of graphs and networks with quantum experiments (such as critical exponents and phase transitions).

Quantum Experiments and Graphs: Multiparty States as Coherent Superpositions of Perfect Matchings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krenn, Mario; Gu, Xuemei; Zeilinger, Anton

2017-12-01

We show a surprising link between experimental setups to realize high-dimensional multipartite quantum states and graph theory. In these setups, the paths of photons are identified such that the photon-source information is never created. We find that each of these setups corresponds to an undirected graph, and every undirected graph corresponds to an experimental setup. Every term in the emerging quantum superposition corresponds to a perfect matching in the graph. Calculating the final quantum state is in the #P-complete complexity class, thus it cannot be done efficiently. To strengthen the link further, theorems from graph theory—such as Hall's marriage problem—are rephrased in the language of pair creation in quantum experiments. We show explicitly how this link allows one to answer questions about quantum experiments (such as which classes of entangled states can be created) with graph theoretical methods, and how to potentially simulate properties of graphs and networks with quantum experiments (such as critical exponents and phase transitions).

Experimental and numerical analysis of convergent nozzlex

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srinivas, G.; Rakham, Bhupal

2017-05-01

In this paper the main focus was given to convergent nozzle where both the experimental and numerical calculations were carried out with the support of standardized literature. In the recent years the field of air breathing and non-air breathing engine developments significantly increase its performance. To enhance the performance of both the type of engines the nozzle is the one of the component which will play a vital role, especially selecting the type of nozzle depends upon the vehicle speed requirement and aerodynamic behavior at most important in the field of propulsion. The convergent nozzle flow experimental analysis done using scaled apparatus and the similar setup was arranged artificially in the ANSYS software for doing the flow analysis across the convergent nozzle. The consistent calculation analysis are done based on the public literature survey to validate the experimental and numerical simulation results of convergent nozzle. Using these two experimental and numerical simulation approaches the best fit results will bring up to meet the design requirements. However the comparison also made to meet the reliability of the work on design criteria of convergent nozzle which can entrench in the field of propulsion applications.

A quantitative study to design an experimental setup for photoacoustic imaging.

PubMed

Marion, Adrien; Boutet, Jérôme; Debourdeau, Mathieu; Dinten, Jean-Marc; Vray, Didier

2011-01-01

During the last decade, a new modality called photoacoustic imaging has emerged. The increasing interest for this new modality is due to the fact that it combines advantages of ultrasound and optical imaging, i.e. the high contrast due to optical absorption and the low acoustic attenuation in biological tissues. It is thus possible to study vascularization because blood has high optical absorption coefficient. Papers in the literature often focus on applications and rarely discuss quantitative parameters. The goal of this paper is to provide quantitative elements to design an acquisition setup. By defining the targeted resolution and penetration depth, it is then possible to evaluate which kind of excitation and reception systems have to be used. First, we recall theoretical background related to photoacoustic effect before to describe the experiments based on a nanosecond laser at 1064 nm and 2.25-5 MHz transducers. Second, we present results about the relation linking fluence laser to signal amplitude and axial and lateral resolutions of our acquisition setup. We verify the linear relation between fluence and amplitude before to estimate axial resolution at 550 μm for a 2.25 MHz ultrasonic transducer. Concerning lateral resolution, we show that a reconstruction technique based on curvilinear acquisition of 30 lines improves it by a factor of 3 compared to a lateral displacement. Future works will include improvement of lateral resolution using probes, like in ultrasound imaging, instead of single-element transducers.

Influence of Cultural, Organizational, and Automation Capability on Human Automation Trust: A Case Study of Auto-GCAS Experimental Test Pilots

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koltai, Kolina; Ho, Nhut; Masequesmay, Gina; Niedober, David; Skoog, Mark; Cacanindin, Artemio; Johnson, Walter; Lyons, Joseph

2014-01-01

This paper discusses a case study that examined the influence of cultural, organizational and automation capability upon human trust in, and reliance on, automation. In particular, this paper focuses on the design and application of an extended case study methodology, and on the foundational lessons revealed by it. Experimental test pilots involved in the research and development of the US Air Force's newly developed Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System served as the context for this examination. An eclectic, multi-pronged approach was designed to conduct this case study, and proved effective in addressing the challenges associated with the case's politically sensitive and military environment. Key results indicate that the system design was in alignment with pilot culture and organizational mission, indicating the potential for appropriate trust development in operational pilots. These include the low-vulnerability/ high risk nature of the pilot profession, automation transparency and suspicion, system reputation, and the setup of and communications among organizations involved in the system development.

Path optimisation of a mobile robot using an artificial neural network controller

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, M. K.; Parhi, D. R.

2011-01-01

This article proposed a novel approach for design of an intelligent controller for an autonomous mobile robot using a multilayer feed forward neural network, which enables the robot to navigate in a real world dynamic environment. The inputs to the proposed neural controller consist of left, right and front obstacle distance with respect to its position and target angle. The output of the neural network is steering angle. A four layer neural network has been designed to solve the path and time optimisation problem of mobile robots, which deals with the cognitive tasks such as learning, adaptation, generalisation and optimisation. A back propagation algorithm is used to train the network. This article also analyses the kinematic design of mobile robots for dynamic movements. The simulation results are compared with experimental results, which are satisfactory and show very good agreement. The training of the neural nets and the control performance analysis has been done in a real experimental setup.

An FDTD-based computer simulation platform for shock wave propagation in electrohydraulic lithotripsy.

PubMed

Yılmaz, Bülent; Çiftçi, Emre

2013-06-01

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) is based on disintegration of the kidney stone by delivering high-energy shock waves that are created outside the body and transmitted through the skin and body tissues. Nowadays high-energy shock waves are also used in orthopedic operations and investigated to be used in the treatment of myocardial infarction and cancer. Because of these new application areas novel lithotriptor designs are needed for different kinds of treatment strategies. In this study our aim was to develop a versatile computer simulation environment which would give the device designers working on various medical applications that use shock wave principle a substantial amount of flexibility while testing the effects of new parameters such as reflector size, material properties of the medium, water temperature, and different clinical scenarios. For this purpose, we created a finite-difference time-domain (FDTD)-based computational model in which most of the physical system parameters were defined as an input and/or as a variable in the simulations. We constructed a realistic computational model of a commercial electrohydraulic lithotriptor and optimized our simulation program using the results that were obtained by the manufacturer in an experimental setup. We, then, compared the simulation results with the results from an experimental setup in which oxygen level in water was varied. Finally, we studied the effects of changing the input parameters like ellipsoid size and material, temperature change in the wave propagation media, and shock wave source point misalignment. The simulation results were consistent with the experimental results and expected effects of variation in physical parameters of the system. The results of this study encourage further investigation and provide adequate evidence that the numerical modeling of a shock wave therapy system is feasible and can provide a practical means to test novel ideas in new device design procedures. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Battery Pack Thermal Design

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pesaran, Ahmad

This presentation describes the thermal design of battery packs at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. A battery thermal management system essential for xEVs for both normal operation during daily driving (achieving life and performance) and off-normal operation during abuse conditions (achieving safety). The battery thermal management system needs to be optimized with the right tools for the lowest cost. Experimental tools such as NREL's isothermal battery calorimeter, thermal imaging, and heat transfer setups are needed. Thermal models and computer-aided engineering tools are useful for robust designs. During abuse conditions, designs should prevent cell-to-cell propagation in a module/pack (i.e., keep themore » fire small and manageable). NREL's battery ISC device can be used for evaluating the robustness of a module/pack to cell-to-cell propagation.« less

Test measurement on ion-molecule reactions in a ringelectrode ion trap

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Savic, I.; Lukic, S. R.; Guth, I.; Gerlich, D.

2006-05-01

Very recently a new experimental setup has been developed allowing studies of astrophysically relevant collisions between neutral atoms and small pure carbon molecules from one side and ions from the other side and first results are obtained (Savić et al., 2005). The ions are stored in a radio- frequency (rf) ring-electrode trap and during reaction time exposed to the effusive carbon beam. In this paper, one of the final tests of the experimental setup is presented.

Reconstruction of dynamic structures of experimental setups based on measurable experimental data only

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Tian-Yu; Chen, Yang; Yang, Hu-Jiang; Xiao, Jing-Hua; Hu, Gang

2018-03-01

Nowadays, massive amounts of data have been accumulated in various and wide fields, it has become today one of the central issues in interdisciplinary fields to analyze existing data and extract as much useful information as possible from data. It is often that the output data of systems are measurable while dynamic structures producing these data are hidden, and thus studies to reveal system structures by analyzing available data, i.e., reconstructions of systems become one of the most important tasks of information extractions. In the past, most of the works in this respect were based on theoretical analyses and numerical verifications. Direct analyses of experimental data are very rare. In physical science, most of the analyses of experimental setups were based on the first principles of physics laws, i.e., so-called top-down analyses. In this paper, we conducted an experiment of “Boer resonant instrument for forced vibration” (BRIFV) and inferred the dynamic structure of the experimental set purely from the analysis of the measurable experimental data, i.e., by applying the bottom-up strategy. Dynamics of the experimental set is strongly nonlinear and chaotic, and itʼs subjects to inevitable noises. We proposed to use high-order correlation computations to treat nonlinear dynamics; use two-time correlations to treat noise effects. By applying these approaches, we have successfully reconstructed the structure of the experimental setup, and the dynamic system reconstructed with the measured data reproduces good experimental results in a wide range of parameters.

The use of wind tunnel facilities to estimate hydrodynamic data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hoffmann, Kristoffer; Tophøj Rasmussen, Johannes; Hansen, Svend Ole; Reiso, Marit; Isaksen, Bjørn; Egeberg Aasland, Tale

2016-03-01

Experimental laboratory testing of vortex-induced structural oscillations in flowing water is an expensive and time-consuming procedure, and the testing of high Reynolds number flow regimes is complicated due to the requirement of either a large-scale or high-speed facility. In most cases, Reynolds number scaling effects are unavoidable, and these uncertainties have to be accounted for, usually by means of empirical rules-of-thumb. Instead of performing traditional hydrodynamic measurements, wind tunnel testing in an appropriately designed experimental setup may provide an alternative and much simpler and cheaper framework for estimating the structural behavior under water current and wave loading. Furthermore, the fluid velocities that can be obtained in a wind tunnel are substantially higher than in a water testing facility, thus decreasing the uncertainty from scaling effects. In a series of measurements, wind tunnel testing has been used to investigate the static response characteristics of a circular and a rectangular section model. Motivated by the wish to estimate the vortex-induced in-line vibration characteristics of a neutrally buoyant submerged marine structure, additional measurements on extremely lightweight, helium-filled circular section models were conducted in a dynamic setup. During the experiment campaign, the mass of the model was varied in order to investigate how the mass ratio influences the vibration amplitude. The results show good agreement with both aerodynamic and hydrodynamic experimental results documented in the literature.

Biomechanical Testing of Distal Radius Fracture Treatments: Boundary Conditions Significantly Affect the Outcome of In Vitro Experiments.

PubMed

Synek, Alexander; Chevalier, Yan; Schröder, Christian; Pahr, Dieter H; Baumbach, Sebastian F

2016-04-01

The variety of experimental setups used during in vitro testing of distal radius fracture treatments impairs interstudy comparison and might lead to contradictory results. Setups particularly differ with respect to their boundary conditions, but the influence on the experimental outcome is unknown. The aim of this biomechanical study was to investigate the effects of 2 common boundary conditions on the biomechanical properties of an extra-articular distal radius fracture treated using volar plate osteosynthesis. Uniaxial compression tests were performed on 10 synthetic radii that were randomized into a proximally constrained group (ProxConst) or proximally movable group (ProxMove). The load was applied distally through a ball joint to enable distal fragment rotation. A significantly larger (ProxConst vs ProxMove) stiffness (671.6 ± 118.9 N·mm(-1) vs 259.6 ± 49.4 N·mm(-1)), elastic limit (186.2 ± 24.4 N vs 75.4 ± 20.2 N), and failure load (504.9 ± 142.5 N vs 200.7 ± 49.0 N) were found for the ProxConst group. The residual tilt did not differ significantly between the 2 groups. We concluded that the boundary conditions have a profound impact on the experimental outcome and should be considered more carefully in both study design and interstudy comparison.

Droplet microfluidics for single-cell analysis.

PubMed

Brouzes, Eric

2012-01-01

This book chapter aims at providing an overview of all the aspects and procedures needed to develop a droplet-based workflow for single-cell analysis (see Fig. 10.1). The surfactant system used to stabilize droplets is a critical component of droplet microfluidics; its properties define the type of droplet-based assays and workflows that can be developed. The scope of this book chapter is limited to fluorinated surfactant systems that have proved to generate extremely stable droplets and allow to easily retrieve the encapsulated material. The formulation section discusses how the experimental parameters influence the choice of the surfactant system to use. The circuit design section presents recipes to design and integrate different droplet modules into a whole assay. The fabrication section describes the manufacturing of microfluidic chip including the surface treatment which is pivotal in droplet microfluidics. Finally, the last section reviews the experimental setup for fluorescence detection with an emphasis on cell injection and incubation.

Design and development aspects of flexure mechanism for high precision application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sollapur, Shrishail B.; Patil, M. S.; Deshmukh, S. P.

2018-04-01

Planer XY Flexurel Mechanisms has various applications in precision motion mechanisms. A flexural mechanism generates relative motion between fixed support and motion stage using flexibility of material. This mechanism offers zero backlash, frictionless motion and high order repeatability. It is relatively compact in design as compared to rigid link mechanism. The merits of using flexure is complete mechanism can be from single monolith. Modelling of flexural mechanism to provide accurate scanning of comparatively larger range at a higher speed. Static Analysis of mechanism is carried out on FEA tool to determine static deflection of motion stage. Further Mechanism is actuated with the help of weight pan and weights. The resultant displacement is measured on Dial Gauge Indicator. Experimental set-up consists of Flexural mechanism, Dial Gauge, Weight Pan and Weights, Pulley, String, Small metal strip, Optical Bread Board etc. Further experimental Results and Analytical Results are compared and minimum deviation is found.

Experiment to Form and Characterize a Section of a Spherically Imploding Plasma Liner

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hsu, S. C.; Langendorf, S. J.; Yates, K. C.

Here, we describe an experiment to form and characterize a section of a spherically imploding plasma liner by merging six supersonic plasma jets that are launched by newly designed contoured-gap coaxial plasma guns. This experiment is a prelude to forming a fully spherical imploding plasma liner using many dozens of plasma guns, as a standoff driver for plasma-jet-driven magneto-inertial fusion. The objectives of the six-jet experiments are to assess the evolution and scalings of liner Mach number and uniformity, which are important metrics for spherically imploding plasma liners to compress magnetized target plasmas to fusion conditions. Lastly, this article describesmore » the design of the coaxial plasma guns, experimental characterization of the plasma jets, six-jet experimental setup and diagnostics, initial diagnostic data from three- and six-jet experiments, and the high-level objectives of associated numerical modeling.« less

Development of a new continuous process for mixing of complex non-Newtonian fluids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Migliozzi, Simona; Mazzei, Luca; Sochon, Bob; Angeli, Panagiota; Thames Multiphase Team; Coral Project Collaboration

2017-11-01

Design of new continuous mixing operations poses many challenges, especially when dealing with highly viscous non-Newtonian fluids. Knowledge of complex rheological behaviour of the working mixture is crucial for development of an efficient process. In this work, we investigate the mixing performance of two different static mixers and the effects of the mixture rheology on the manufacturing of novel non-aqueous-based oral care products using experimental and computational fluid dynamic methods. The two liquid phases employed, i.e. a carbomer suspension in polyethylene glycol and glycerol, start to form a gel when they mix. We studied the structure evolution of the liquid mixture using time-resolved rheometry and we obtained viscosity rheograms at different phase ratios from pressure drop measurements in a customized mini-channel. The numerical results and rheological model were validated with experimental measurements carried out in a specifically designed setup. EPSRS-CORAL.

Experiment to Form and Characterize a Section of a Spherically Imploding Plasma Liner

DOE PAGES

Hsu, S. C.; Langendorf, S. J.; Yates, K. C.; ...

2017-12-18

Here, we describe an experiment to form and characterize a section of a spherically imploding plasma liner by merging six supersonic plasma jets that are launched by newly designed contoured-gap coaxial plasma guns. This experiment is a prelude to forming a fully spherical imploding plasma liner using many dozens of plasma guns, as a standoff driver for plasma-jet-driven magneto-inertial fusion. The objectives of the six-jet experiments are to assess the evolution and scalings of liner Mach number and uniformity, which are important metrics for spherically imploding plasma liners to compress magnetized target plasmas to fusion conditions. Lastly, this article describesmore » the design of the coaxial plasma guns, experimental characterization of the plasma jets, six-jet experimental setup and diagnostics, initial diagnostic data from three- and six-jet experiments, and the high-level objectives of associated numerical modeling.« less

A new pneumatic suspension system with independent stiffness and ride height tuning capabilities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Zhihong; Khajepour, Amir; Cao, Dongpu; Ebrahimi, Babak; Guo, Konghui

2012-12-01

This paper introduces a new pneumatic spring for vehicle suspension systems, allowing independent tuning of stiffness and ride height according to different vehicle operating conditions and driver preferences. The proposed pneumatic spring comprises a double-acting pneumatic cylinder, two accumulators and a tuning subsystem. This paper presents a detailed description of the pneumatic spring and its working principle. The mathematical model is established based on principles of thermo and fluid dynamics. An experimental setup has been designed and fabricated for testing and evaluating the proposed pneumatic spring. The analytical and experimental results confirm the capability of the new pneumatic spring system for independent tuning of stiffness and ride height. The mathematical model is verified and the capabilities of the pneumatic spring are further proved. It is concluded that this new pneumatic spring provides a more flexible suspension design alternative for meeting various conflicting suspension requirements for ride comfort and performance.

Experimental aeroelastic control using adaptive wing model concepts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Costa, Antonio P.; Moniz, Paulo A.; Suleman, Afzal

2001-06-01

The focus of this study is to evaluate the aeroelastic performance and control of adaptive wings. Ailerons and flaps have been designed and implemented into 3D wings for comparison with adaptive structures and active aerodynamic surface control methods. The adaptive structures concept, the experimental setup and the control design are presented. The wind-tunnel tests of the wing models are presented for the open- and closed-loop systems. The wind tunnel testing has allowed for quantifying the effectiveness of the piezoelectric vibration control of the wings, and also provided performance data for comparison with conventional aerodynamic control surfaces. The results indicate that a wing utilizing skins as active structural elements with embedded piezoelectric actuators can be effectively used to improve the aeroelastic response of aeronautical components. It was also observed that the control authority of adaptive wings is much greater than wings using conventional aerodynamic control surfaces.

IMAGE Project: Results of Laboratory Tests on Tracers for Supercritical Conditions.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brandvoll, Øyvind; Opsahl Viig, Sissel; Nardini, Isabella; Muller, Jiri

2016-04-01

The use of tracers is a well-established technique for monitoring dynamic behaviour of water and gas through a reservoir. In geothermal reservoirs special challenges are encountered due to high temperatures and pressures. In this work, tracer candidates for monitoring water at supercritical conditions (temperature > 374°C, pressure ca 218 bar), are tested in laboratory experiments. Testing of tracers at supercritical water conditions requires experimental set-ups which tolerate harsh conditions with respect to high temperature and pressure. In addition stringent HES (health, environment and safety) factors have to be taken into consideration when designing and performing the experiments. The setup constructed in this project consists of a pressure vessel, high pressure pump, instrumentation for pressure and temperature control and instrumentation required for accurate sampling of tracers. In order to achieve accurate results, a special focus has been paid to the development of the tracer sampling technique. Perfluorinated cyclic hydrocarbons (PFCs) have been selected as tracer candidates. This group of compounds is today commonly used as gas tracers in oil reservoirs. According to the literature they are stable at temperatures up to 400°C. To start with, five PFCs have been tested for thermal stability in static experiments at 375°C and 108 bar in the experimental setup described above. The tracer candidates will be further tested for several months at the relevant conditions. Preliminary results indicate that some of the PFC compounds show stability after three months. However, in order to arrive at conclusive results, the experiments have to be repeated over a longer period and paying special attention to more accurate sampling procedures.

Comprehensive evaluation of high-steep slope stability and optimal high-steep slope design by 3D physical modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lai, Xing-ping; Shan, Peng-fei; Cai, Mei-feng; Ren, Fen-hua; Tan, Wen-hui

2015-01-01

High-steep slope stability and its optimal excavation design in Shuichang open pit iron mine were analyzed based on a large 3D physical simulation technique. An optimal excavation scheme with a relatively steeper slope angle was successfully implemented at the northwest wall between Nos. 4 and 5 exploration lines of Shuichang Iron Mine, taking into account the 3D scale effect. The physico-mechanical properties of rock materials were obtained by laboratory tests conducted on sample cores from exploration drilling directly from the iron mine. A porous rock-like composite material was formed for the model, and the mechanical parameters of the material were assessed experimentally; specifically, the effect of water on the sample was quantitatively determined. We adopted an experimental setup using stiff modular applied static loading to carry out a visual excavation of the slope at a random depth. The setup was equipped with acoustic emission (AE) sensors, and the experiments were monitored by crack optical acquirement, ground penetrating radar, and close-field photogrammetry to investigate the mechanisms of rock-mass destabilization in the high-steep slope. For the complex study area, the model results indicated a clear correlation between the model's destabilization resulting from slope excavation and the collected monitoring information. During the model simulation, the overall angle of the slope increased by 1-6 degrees in different sections. Dramatically, the modeled excavation scheme saved over 80 million tons of rock from extraction, generating enormous economic and ecological benefits.

Preliminary Study of Realistic Blast Impact on Cultured Brain Slices

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-01

and/or multiple impacts in water. 3. Experimental Setup 3.1 The Aquarium Setup A 30.5-cm by 34.5- × 65-cm water-filled polymethylmethacrylate ...sodium bicarbonate PAGE polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis PMMA polymethylmethacrylate RDECOM U.S. Army Research Development and Engineering Command

Radio for hidden-photon dark matter detection

DOE PAGES

Chaudhuri, Saptarshi; Graham, Peter W.; Irwin, Kent; ...

2015-10-08

We propose a resonant electromagnetic detector to search for hidden-photon dark matter over an extensive range of masses. Hidden-photon dark matter can be described as a weakly coupled “hidden electric field,” oscillating at a frequency fixed by the mass, and able to penetrate any shielding. At low frequencies (compared to the inverse size of the shielding), we find that the observable effect of the hidden photon inside any shielding is a real, oscillating magnetic field. We outline experimental setups designed to search for hidden-photon dark matter, using a tunable, resonant LC circuit designed to couple to this magnetic field. Ourmore » “straw man” setups take into consideration resonator design, readout architecture and noise estimates. At high frequencies, there is an upper limit to the useful size of a single resonator set by 1/ν. However, many resonators may be multiplexed within a hidden-photon coherence length to increase the sensitivity in this regime. Hidden-photon dark matter has an enormous range of possible frequencies, but current experiments search only over a few narrow pieces of that range. As a result, we find the potential sensitivity of our proposal is many orders of magnitude beyond current limits over an extensive range of frequencies, from 100 Hz up to 700 GHz and potentially higher.« less

Simulations and experiments on vibration damping for zoom-holography and nano-scanning at the GINIX

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osterhoff, Markus; Luley, Peter; Sprung, Michael; Salditt, Tim

2017-09-01

The Göttingen Instrument for Nano-Imaging with X-ray (GINIX) is a holography endstation located at the P10 coherence beamline at PETRA III, designed and operated by the University of Göttingen in close collaboration with DESY Photon science Hamburg [1-2]. GINIX is designed as a waveguide based holography experiment with a Kirkpatrick-Baez nanofocus. Its versatility has stimulated a great manifold of imaging modalities. Today, users choose the GINIX setup not only for its few nm coherent waveguide beams (e.g. for ptychography or holography), but also to carry out scanning SAXS measurements to probe local anisotropies with sub-micron real-space and even higher reciprocal space resolution. In addition, it is possible to combine different detectors for e.g. simultaneous SAXS/WAXS and fluorescence measurements [3]. We summarise our ongoing efforts to reduce vibrations in the setup, and present latest experimental results obtained with GINIX, focusing on the unique capabilities offered by its versatile and flexible design. The overview includes results from different imaging schemes such as waveguide based zoom-tomography and user examples in WAXS geometry. We show how to correlate complementary techniques like holography and scanning SAXS and present first results obtained using a new fast sample scanner for Multilayer Zone Plate imaging..

Experimental setup for evaluating an adaptive user interface for teleoperation control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wijayasinghe, Indika B.; Peetha, Srikanth; Abubakar, Shamsudeen; Saadatzi, Mohammad Nasser; Cremer, Sven; Popa, Dan O.

2017-05-01

A vital part of human interactions with a machine is the control interface, which single-handedly could define the user satisfaction and the efficiency of performing a task. This paper elaborates the implementation of an experimental setup to study an adaptive algorithm that can help the user better tele-operate the robot. The formulation of the adaptive interface and associate learning algorithms are general enough to apply when the mapping between the user controls and the robot actuators is complex and/or ambiguous. The method uses a genetic algorithm to find the optimal parameters that produce the input-output mapping for teleoperation control. In this paper, we describe the experimental setup and associated results that was used to validate the adaptive interface to a differential drive robot from two different input devices; a joystick, and a Myo gesture control armband. Results show that after the learning phase, the interface converges to an intuitive mapping that can help even inexperienced users drive the system to a goal location.

Simulation of vortex-induced vibrations of a cylinder using ANSYS CFX rigid body solver

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Izhar, Abubakar; Qureshi, Arshad Hussain; Khushnood, Shahab

2017-03-01

This article simulates the vortex-induced oscillations of a rigid circular cylinder with elastic support using the new ANSYS CFX rigid body solver. This solver requires no solid mesh to setup FSI (Fluid Structure Interaction) simulation. The two-way case was setup in CFX only. Specific mass of the cylinder and flow conditions were similar to previous experimental data with mass damping parameter equal to 0.04, specific mass of 1 and Reynolds number of 3800. Two dimensional simulations were setup. Both one-degree-of-freedom and two-degree-of-freedom cases were run and results were obtained for both cases with reasonable accuracy as compared with experimental results. Eight-figure XY trajectory and lock-in behavior were clearly captured. The obtained results were satisfactory.

Quantitative impact of small angle forward scatter on whole blood oximetry using a Beer-Lambert absorbance model.

PubMed

LeBlanc, Serge Emile; Atanya, Monica; Burns, Kevin; Munger, Rejean

2011-04-21

It is well known that red blood cell scattering has an impact on whole blood oximetry as well as in vivo retinal oxygen saturation measurements. The goal of this study was to quantify the impact of small angle forward scatter on whole blood oximetry for scattering angles found in retinal oximetry light paths. Transmittance spectra of whole blood were measured in two different experimental setups: one that included small angle scatter in the transmitted signal and one that measured the transmitted signal only, at absorbance path lengths of 25, 50, 100, 250 and 500 µm. Oxygen saturation was determined by multiple linear regression in the 520-600 nm wavelength range and compared between path lengths and experimental setups. Mean calculated oxygen saturation differences between setups were greater than 10% at every absorbance path length. The deviations to the Beer-Lambert absorbance model had different spectral dependences between experimental setups, with the highest deviations found in the 520-540 nm range when scatter was added to the transmitted signal. These results are consistent with other models of forward scatter that predict different spectral dependences of the red blood cell scattering cross-section and haemoglobin extinction coefficients in this wavelength range.

Automatized set-up procedure for transcranial magnetic stimulation protocols.

PubMed

Harquel, S; Diard, J; Raffin, E; Passera, B; Dall'Igna, G; Marendaz, C; David, O; Chauvin, A

2017-06-01

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) established itself as a powerful technique for probing and treating the human brain. Major technological evolutions, such as neuronavigation and robotized systems, have continuously increased the spatial reliability and reproducibility of TMS, by minimizing the influence of human and experimental factors. However, there is still a lack of efficient set-up procedure, which prevents the automation of TMS protocols. For example, the set-up procedure for defining the stimulation intensity specific to each subject is classically done manually by experienced practitioners, by assessing the motor cortical excitability level over the motor hotspot (HS) of a targeted muscle. This is time-consuming and introduces experimental variability. Therefore, we developed a probabilistic Bayesian model (AutoHS) that automatically identifies the HS position. Using virtual and real experiments, we compared the efficacy of the manual and automated procedures. AutoHS appeared to be more reproducible, faster, and at least as reliable as classical manual procedures. By combining AutoHS with robotized TMS and automated motor threshold estimation methods, our approach constitutes the first fully automated set-up procedure for TMS protocols. The use of this procedure decreases inter-experimenter variability while facilitating the handling of TMS protocols used for research and clinical routine. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Remote sensing from the desktop up, a students's personal stairway to space (Invited)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Church, W.

2013-12-01

Doing science with real-time quantitative experiments is becoming more and more affordable and accessible. Because lab equipment is more affordable and accessible, many universities are using lab class models wherein students conduct their experiments in informal settings such as the dorm, outside, or other places throughout the campus. Students are doing real-time measurements homework outside of class. By liberating experiments from facilities, the hope is to give students more experimental science opportunities. The challenge is support. In lab settings, instructors and peers can help students if they have trouble with the steps of assembling their experimental set-up, configuring the data acquisition software, conducting the real-time measurement and doing the analysis. Students working on their own in a dorm do not benefit from this support. Furthermore, when students are given the open ended experimental task of designing their own measurement system, they may need more guidance. In this poster presentation, I will articulate a triangle model to support students through the task of finding the necessary resources to design and build a mission to space. In the triangle model, students have access to base layer concept and skill resources to help them build their experiment. They then have access to middle layer mini-experiments to help them configure and test their experimental set-up. Finally, they have a motivating real-time experiment. As an example of this type of resource used in practice, I will have a balloon science remote sensing project as a stand-in for a balloon mission to 100,000 feet. I will use an Arduino based DAQ system and XBee modules for wireless data transmission to a LabVIEW front-panel. I will attach the DAQ to a tethered balloon to conduct a real-time microclimate experiment in the Moscone Center. Expanded microclimate studies can be the capstone project or can be a stepping-stone to space wherein students prepare a sensor package for a weather balloon launch to 100,000 feet.

Real-time local experimental monitoring of the bleaching process.

PubMed

Rakic, Mario; Klaric, Eva; Sever, Ivan; Rakic, Iva Srut; Pichler, Goran; Tarle, Zrinka

2015-04-01

The purpose of this article was to investigate a new setup for tooth bleaching and monitoring of the same process in real time, so to prevent overbleaching and related sideeffects of the bleaching procedure. So far, known bleaching procedures cannot simultaneously monitor and perform the bleaching process or provide any local control over bleaching. The experimental setup was developed at the Institute of Physics, Zagreb. The setup consists of a camera, a controller, and optical fibers. The bleaching was performed with 25% hydrogen peroxide activated by ultraviolet light diodes, and the light for monitoring was emitted by white light diodes. The collected light was analyzed using a red-green-blue (RGB) index. A K-type thermocouple was used for temperature measurements. Pastilles made from hydroxylapatite powder as well as human teeth served as experimental objects. Optimal bleaching time substantially varied among differently stained specimens. To reach reference color (A1, Chromascop shade guide), measured as an RGB index, bleaching time for pastilles ranged from 8 to >20 min, whereas for teeth it ranged from 3.5 to >20 min. The reflected light intensity of each R, G, and B component at the end of bleaching process (after 20 min) had increased up to 56% of the baseline intensity. The presented experimental setup provides essential information about when to stop the bleaching process to achieve the desired optical results so that the bleaching process can be completely responsive to the characteristics of every individual, leading to more satisfying results.

Effects of bergamot ( Citrus bergamia (Risso) Wright & Arn.) essential oil aromatherapy on mood states, parasympathetic nervous system activity, and salivary cortisol levels in 41 healthy females.

PubMed

Watanabe, Eri; Kuchta, Kenny; Kimura, Mari; Rauwald, Hans Wilhelm; Kamei, Tsutomu; Imanishi, Jiro

2015-01-01

Bergamot essential oil (BEO) is commonly used against psychological stress and anxiety in aromatherapy. The primary aim of the present study was to obtain first clinical evidence for these psychological and physiological effects. A secondary aim was to achieve some fundamental understanding of the relevant pharmacological processes. Endocrinological, physiological, and psychological effects of BEO vapor inhalation on 41 healthy females were tested using a random crossover study design. Volunteers were exposed to 3 experimental setups (rest (R), rest + water vapor (RW), rest + water vapor + bergamot essential oil (RWB)) for 15 min each. Immediately after each setup, saliva samples were collected and the volunteers rested for 10 min. Subsequently, they completed the Profile of Mood States, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and Fatigue Self-Check List. High-frequency (HF) heart rate values, an indicator for parasympathetic nervous system activity, were calculated from heart rate variability values measured both during the 15 min of the experiment and during the subsequent 10 min of rest. Salivary cortisol (CS) levels in the saliva samples were analyzed using ELISA. CS of all 3 conditions R, RW, and RWB were found to be significantly distinct (p = 0.003). In the subsequent multiple comparison test, the CS value of RWB was significantly lower when compared to the R setup. When comparing the HF values of the RWB setup during the 10 min of rest after the experiment to those of RW, this parameter was significantly increased (p = 0.026) in the RWB setup for which scores for negative emotions and fatigue were also improved. These results demonstrate that BEO inhaled together with water vapor exerts psychological and physiological effects in a relatively short time. © 2015 S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg.

Super-resolution with an SLM and two intensity images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alcalá Ochoa, Noé; de León, Y. Ponce

2018-06-01

It is reported a method which may simplify the optical setups used to achieve super-resolution through the amplitude multiplication of two waves. For this end we decompose a super-resolving pupil into two complex masks and with the aid of a Spatial Light Modulator (LCoS) we obtain two intensity images that are subtracted. With this proposal, the traditional experimental optical setups are considerably simplified, with the additional benefit that different masks can be utilized without needing to perform the setup alignment each time.

Characterisation of large area THGEMs and experimental measurement of the Townsend coefficients for CF4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burns, J.; Crane, T.; Ezeribe, A. C.; Grove, C. L.; Lynch, W.; Scarff, A.; Spooner, N. J. C.; Steer, C.

2017-10-01

Whilst the performance of small THGEMs is well known, here we consider the challenges in scaling these up to large area charge readouts. We first verify the expected gain of larger THGEMs by reporting experimental Townsend coefficients for a 10 cm diameter THGEM in low-pressure CF4. Large area 50 cm by 50 cm THGEMs were sourced from a commercial PCB supplier and geometrical imperfections were observed which we quantified using an optical camera setup. The large area THGEMs were experimentally characterised at Boulby Underground Laboratory through a series of gain calibrations and alpha spectrum measurements. ANSYS, Magboltz and Garfield++ simulations of the design of a TPC based on the large area THGEMs are presented. We also consider their implications for directional dark matter research and potential applications within nuclear security.

Experimental determination of frequency response function estimates for flexible joint industrial manipulators with serial kinematics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saupe, Florian; Knoblach, Andreas

2015-02-01

Two different approaches for the determination of frequency response functions (FRFs) are used for the non-parametric closed loop identification of a flexible joint industrial manipulator with serial kinematics. The two applied experiment designs are based on low power multisine and high power chirp excitations. The main challenge is to eliminate disturbances of the FRF estimates caused by the numerous nonlinearities of the robot. For the experiment design based on chirp excitations, a simple iterative procedure is proposed which allows exploiting the good crest factor of chirp signals in a closed loop setup. An interesting synergy of the two approaches, beyond validation purposes, is pointed out.

Reduction of uranium hexafluoride to tetrafluoride by using the hydrogen atoms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aleksandrov, B. P.; Gordon, E. B.; Ivanov, A. V.; Kotov, A. A.; Smirnov, V. E.

2016-09-01

We consider the reduction of UF6 to UF4 by chemical reaction with hydrogen atoms originated in the powerful chemical generator. The principal design of such a chemical convertor is described. The results of the mathematical modeling of the thermodynamics and kinetics of the UF6 to UF4 reduction process are analyzed. The few options for the hydrogen atom generator design are proposed. A layout of the experimental setup with the chemical reactor is presented. The high efficiency together with the ability of the process scaling without loss of its efficiency makes this approach to the uranium hexafluoride depletion into tetrafluoride promising for its application in the industry.

A Multicusp Ion Source for Radioactive Ion Beams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wutte, D.; Freedman, S.; Gough, R.; Lee, Y.; Leitner, M.; Leung, K. N.; Lyneis, C.; Picard, D. S.; Sun, L.; Williams, M. D.; Xie, Z. Q.

1997-05-01

In order to produce a radioactive ion beam of (14)O+, a 10-cm-diameter, 13.56 MHz radio frequency (rf) driven multicusp ion source is now being developed at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. In this paper we describe the specific ion source design and the basic ion source characteristics using Ar, Xe and a 90types of measurements have been performed: extractable ion current, ion species distributions, gas efficiency, axial energy spread and ion beam emittance measurements. The source can generate ion current densities of approximately 60 mA/cm2 . In addition the design of the ion beam extraction/transport system for the actual experimental setup for the radioactive beam line will be presented.

Dependence of the Contact Resistance on the Design of Stranded Conductors

PubMed Central

Zeroukhi, Youcef; Napieralska-Juszczak, Ewa; Vega, Guillaume; Komeza, Krzysztof; Morganti, Fabrice; Wiak, Slawomir

2014-01-01

During the manufacturing process multi-strand conductors are subject to compressive force and rotation moments. The current distribution in the multi-strand conductors is not uniform and is controlled by the transverse resistivity. This is mainly determined by the contact resistance at the strand crossovers and inter-strand contact resistance. The surface layer properties, and in particular the crystalline structure and degree of oxidation, are key parameters in determining the transverse resistivity. The experimental set-ups made it possible to find the dependence of contact resistivity as a function of continuous working stresses and cable design. A study based on measurements and numerical simulation is made to identify the contact resistivity functions. PMID:25196112

The Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) Instrument: Characterization of Organic Material in Martian Sediments

PubMed Central

Goesmann, Fred; Brinckerhoff, William B.; Raulin, François; Danell, Ryan M.; Getty, Stephanie A.; Siljeström, Sandra; Mißbach, Helge; Steininger, Harald; Arevalo, Ricardo D.; Buch, Arnaud; Freissinet, Caroline; Grubisic, Andrej; Meierhenrich, Uwe J.; Pinnick, Veronica T.; Stalport, Fabien; Szopa, Cyril; Vago, Jorge L.; Lindner, Robert; Schulte, Mitchell D.; Brucato, John Robert; Glavin, Daniel P.; Grand, Noel; Li, Xiang; van Amerom, Friso H. W.

2017-01-01

Abstract The Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MOMA) instrument onboard the ESA/Roscosmos ExoMars rover (to launch in July, 2020) will analyze volatile and refractory organic compounds in martian surface and subsurface sediments. In this study, we describe the design, current status of development, and analytical capabilities of the instrument. Data acquired on preliminary MOMA flight-like hardware and experimental setups are also presented, illustrating their contribution to the overall science return of the mission. Key Words: Mars—Mass spectrometry—Life detection—Planetary instrumentation. Astrobiology 17, 655–685.

Traveling-Wave Membrane Photomixers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wyss, R. A.; Martin, S. C.; Nakamura, B. J.; Neto, A.; Pasqualini, D.; Siegel, P. H.; Kadow, C.; Gossard, A. C.

2001-01-01

Traveling-wave photomixers have superior performance when compared with lumped area photomixers in the 1 to 3 THz frequency range. Their large active area and distributed gain mechanism assure high thermal damage threshold and elimination of the capacitive frequency roll-off. However, the losses experienced by the radio frequency wave traveling along the coplanar strips waveguide (due to underlying semi-infinite GaAs substrate) were a serious drawback. In this paper we present device designs and an experimental setup that make possible the realization of photomixers on membranes which eliminate the losses.

Rotational viscometers—a subject for student projects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kraftmakher, Yaakov

2010-11-01

Three variants of the rotational viscometer employing a dc motor are considered. The viscometers are highly suitable for liquids of high viscosity, such as glycerol or oils (that is, for η in the range 10-1000 mPa s). The set-ups are very simple and can serve as a first step to designing devices that are more complicated. Experimentation with the electrical motors used in the viscometers provides a deeper understanding of some of the fundamental laws of electricity and magnetism (Lorentz's force, Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, and Lenz's law).

High-fidelity readout in circuit quantum electrodynamics using the Jaynes-Cummings nonlinearity.

PubMed

Reed, M D; DiCarlo, L; Johnson, B R; Sun, L; Schuster, D I; Frunzio, L; Schoelkopf, R J

2010-10-22

We demonstrate a qubit readout scheme that exploits the Jaynes-Cummings nonlinearity of a superconducting cavity coupled to transmon qubits. We find that, in the strongly driven dispersive regime of this system, there is the unexpected onset of a high-transmission "bright" state at a critical power which depends sensitively on the initial qubit state. A simple and robust measurement protocol exploiting this effect achieves a single-shot fidelity of 87% using a conventional sample design and experimental setup, and at least 61% fidelity to joint correlations of three qubits.

A real-time multi-gases detection and concentration measurements based-on time-division multiplexed-lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yazdandoust, Fatemeh; Tatenguem Fankem, Hervé; Milde, Tobias; Jimenez, Alvaro; Sacher, Joachim

2018-02-01

We report the development of a platform, based-on a Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) and suitable for Time-Division-Multiplexed DFB lasers. The designed platform is subsequently combined with a spectroscopy setup, for detection and quantification of species in a gas mixture. The experimental results show a detection limit of 460 ppm, an uncertainty of 0.1% and a computation time of less than 1000 clock cycles. The proposed system offers a high level of flexibility and is applicable to arbitrary types of gas-mixtures.

Effect of electrolytes on bubble coalescence in columns observed with visualization techniques.

PubMed

Aguilera, María Eugenia; Ojeda, Antonieta; Rondón, Carolina; López De Ramos, Aura

2002-10-01

Bubble coalescence and the effect of electrolytes on this phenomenon have been previously studied. This interfacial phenomenon has attracted attention for reactor design/operation and enhanced oil recovery. Predicting bubble coalescence may help prevent low yields in reactors and predict crude oil recovery. Because of the importance of bubble coalescence, the objectives of this work were to improve the accuracy of measuring the percentage of coalescing bubbles and to observe the interfacial gas-liquid behavior. An experimental setup was designed and constructed. Bubble interactions were monitored with a visualization setup. The percentage of air bubble coalescence was 100% in distilled water, about 50% in 0.1 M sodium chloride (NaCl) aqueous solution, and 0% in 0.145 M NaCl aqueous solution. A reduction of the contact gas-liquid area was observed in distillate water. The volume of the resulting bubble was the sum of the original bubble volumes. Repulsion of bubbles was observed in NaCl solutions exceeding 0.07 M. The percentage of bubble coalescence diminishes as the concentration of NaCl chloride increases. High-speed video recording is an accurate technique to measure the percentage of bubble coalescence, and represents an important advance in gas-liquid interfacial studies.

Integrated InP frequency discriminator for Phase-modulated microwave photonic links.

PubMed

Fandiño, J S; Doménech, J D; Muñoz, P; Capmany, J

2013-02-11

We report the design, fabrication and characterization of an integrated frequency discriminator on InP technology for microwave photonic phase modulated links. The optical chip is, to the best of our knowledge, the first reported in an active platform and the first to include the optical detectors. The discriminator, designed as a linear filter in intensity, features preliminary SFDR values the range between 67 and 79 dB.Hz(2/3) for signal frequencies in the range of 5-9 GHz limited, in principle, by the high value of the optical losses arising from the use of several free space coupling devices in our experimental setup. As discussed, these losses can be readily reduced by the use of integrated spot-size converters improving the SFDR by 17.3 dB (84-96 dB.Hz(2/3)). Further increase up to a range of (104-116 dB.Hz(2/3)) is possible by reducing the system noise eliminating the EDFA employed in the setup and using a commercially available laser source providing higher output power and lower relative intensity noise. Other paths for improvement requiring a filter redesign to be linear in the optical field are also discussed.

THz and Sub-THz Capabilities of a Table-Top Radiation Source Driven by an RF Thermionic Electron Gun

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Smirnov, Alexei V.; Agustsson, R.; Boucher, S.

Design features and experimental results are presented for a sub-mm wave source [1] based on APS RF thermionic electron gun. The setup includes compact alpha-magnet, quadrupoles, sub-mm-wave radiators, and THz optics. The sub-THz radiator is a planar, oversized structure with gratings. Source upgrade for generation frequencies above 1 THz is discussed. The THz radiator will use a short-period undulator having 1 T field amplitude, ~20 cm length, and integrated with a low-loss oversized waveguide. Both radiators are integrated with a miniature horn antenna and a small ~90°-degree in-vacuum bending magnet. The electron beamline is designed to operate different modes includingmore » conversion to a flat beam interacting efficiently with the radiator. The source can be used for cancer diagnostics, surface defectoscopy, and non-destructive testing. Sub-THz experiment demonstrated a good potential of a robust, table-top system for generation of a narrow bandwidth THz radiation. This setup can be considered as a prototype of a compact, laser-free, flexible source capable of generation of long trains of Sub-THz and THz pulses with repetition rates not available with laser-driven sources.« less

Cryptographic salting for security enhancement of double random phase encryption schemes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Velez Zea, Alejandro; Fredy Barrera, John; Torroba, Roberto

2017-10-01

Security in optical encryption techniques is a subject of great importance, especially in light of recent reports of successful attacks. We propose a new procedure to reinforce the ciphertexts generated in double random phase encrypting experimental setups. This ciphertext is protected by multiplexing with a ‘salt’ ciphertext coded with the same setup. We present an experimental implementation of the ‘salting’ technique. Thereafter, we analyze the resistance of the ‘salted’ ciphertext under some of the commonly known attacks reported in the literature, demonstrating the validity of our proposal.

Experimental investigation of environment-induced entanglement using an all-optical setup

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Passos, M. H. M.; Balthazar, W. F.; Khoury, A. Z.; Hor-Meyll, M.; Davidovich, L.; Huguenin, J. A. O.

2018-02-01

We investigate the generation of entanglement between two noninteracting qubits coupled to a common reservoir. An experimental setup was conceived to encode one qubit on the polarization of an optical beam and another qubit on its transverse mode. The action of the reservoir is implemented as conditional operations on these two qubits, controlled by the longitudinal path as an ancillary degree of freedom. An entanglement witness and the two-qubit concurrence are easily evaluated from direct intensity measurements showing an excellent agreement with the theoretical prediction.

Realization of optimized quantum controlled-logic gate based on the orbital angular momentum of light.

PubMed

Zeng, Qiang; Li, Tao; Song, Xinbing; Zhang, Xiangdong

2016-04-18

We propose and experimentally demonstrate an optimized setup to implement quantum controlled-NOT operation using polarization and orbital angular momentum qubits. This device is more adaptive to inputs with various polarizations, and can work both in classical and quantum single-photon regime. The logic operations performed by such a setup not only possess high stability and polarization-free character, they can also be easily extended to deal with multi-qubit input states. As an example, the experimental implementation of generalized three-qubit Toffoli gate has been presented.

The Recommendations for Linear Measurement Techniques on the Measurements of Nonlinear System Parameters of a Joint.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Smith, Scott A; Catalfamo, Simone; Brake, Matthew R. W.

2017-01-01

In the study of the dynamics of nonlinear systems, experimental measurements often convolute the response of the nonlinearity of interest and the effects of the experimental setup. To reduce the influence of the experimental setup on the deduction of the parameters of the nonlinearity, the response of a mechanical joint is investigated under various experimental setups. These experiments first focus on quantifying how support structures and measurement techniques affect the natural frequency and damping of a linear system. The results indicate that support structures created from bungees have negligible influence on the system in terms of frequency and damping ratiomore » variations. The study then focuses on the effects of the excitation technique on the response for a linear system. The findings suggest that thinner stingers should not be used, because under the high force requirements the stinger bending modes are excited adding unwanted torsional coupling. The optimal configuration for testing the linear system is then applied to a nonlinear system in order to assess the robustness of the test configuration. Finally, recommendations are made for conducting experiments on nonlinear systems using conventional/linear testing techniques.« less

Experimental Evaluation of a Water Shield for a Surface Power Reactor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pearson, J. B.; Reid, R.; Sadasivan, P.; Stewart, E.

2007-01-01

A water based shielding system is being investigated for use on initial lunar surface power systems. The use of water may lower overall cost (as compared to development cost for other materials) and simplify operations in the setup and handling. The thermal hydraulic performance of the shield is of significant interest. The mechanism for transferring heat through the shield is natural convection. A representative lunar surface reactor design is evaluated at various power levels in the Water Shield Testbed (WST) at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center. The evaluation compares the experimental data from the WST to CFD models. Performance of a water shield on the lunar surface is predicted by CFD models anchored to test data, and by matching relevant dimensionless parameters.

A DNA Melting Exercise for a Large Laboratory Class

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levine, Lauren A.; Junker, Matthew; Stark, Myranda; Greenleaf, Dustin

2015-01-01

A simple and economical experimental setup is described that enables multiple individuals or groups within a laboratory class to measure the thermal melting of double stranded DNA simultaneously. The setup utilizes a basic spectrophotometer capable of measuring absorbance at 260 nm, UV plastic cuvettes, and a stirring hot plate. Students measure…

Use of microstrip patch antennas in grain permittivity measurement

USGS Publications Warehouse

El Sabbagh, M.A.; Ramahi, O.M.; Trabelsi, S.; Nelson, S.O.; Khan, L.

2003-01-01

In this paper, a compact size free-space setup is proposed for the measurement of complex permittivity of granular materials. The horn antennas in the conventional setup are replaced by microstrip patch antennas which is a step toward system miniaturization. The experimental results obtained are in good agreement with those obtained with horn antennas.

Piezoelectric and optical setup to measure an electrical field: application to the longitudinal near-field generated by a tapered coax.

PubMed

Euphrasie, S; Vairac, P; Cretin, B; Lengaigne, G

2008-03-01

We propose a new setup to measure an electrical field in one direction. This setup is made of a piezoelectric sintered lead zinconate titanate film and an optical interferometric probe. We used this setup to investigate how the shape of the extremity of a coaxial cable influences the longitudinal electrical near-field generated by it. For this application, we designed our setup to have a spatial resolution of 100 microm in the direction of the electrical field. Simulations and experiments are presented.

Measurements of the frame acoustic properties of porous and granular materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Junhong

2005-12-01

For porous and granular materials, the dynamic characteristics of the solid component (frame) are important design factors that significantly affect the material's acoustic properties. The primary goal of this study was to present an experimental method for measuring the vibration characteristics of this frame. The experimental setup was designed to induce controlled vibration of the solid component while minimizing the influence from coupling between vibrations of the fluid and the solid component. The Biot theory was used to verify this assumption, taking the two dilatational wave propagations and interactions into account. The experimental method was applied to measure the dynamic properties of glass spheres, lightweight microspheres, acoustic foams, and fiberglass. A continuous variation of the frame vibration characteristics with frequency similar to that of typical viscoelastic materials was measured. The vibration amplitude had minimal effects on the dynamic characteristics of the porous material compared to those of the granular material. For the granular material, materials comprised of larger particles and those under larger vibration amplitudes exhibited lower frame wave speeds and larger decay rates.

Polarization-maintaining reflection-mode THz time-domain spectroscopy of a polyimide based ultra-thin narrow-band metamaterial absorber.

PubMed

Astorino, Maria Denise; Fastampa, Renato; Frezza, Fabrizio; Maiolo, Luca; Marrani, Marco; Missori, Mauro; Muzi, Marco; Tedeschi, Nicola; Veroli, Andrea

2018-01-31

This paper reports the design, the microfabrication and the experimental characterization of an ultra-thin narrow-band metamaterial absorber at terahertz frequencies. The metamaterial device is composed of a highly flexible polyimide spacer included between a top electric ring resonator with a four-fold rotational symmetry and a bottom ground plane that avoids misalignment problems. Its performance has been experimentally demonstrated by a custom polarization-maintaining reflection-mode terahertz time-domain spectroscopy system properly designed in order to reach a collimated configuration of the terahertz beam. The dependence of the spectral characteristics of this metamaterial absorber has been evaluated on the azimuthal angle under oblique incidence. The obtained absorbance levels are comprised between 67% and 74% at 1.092 THz and the polarization insensitivity has been verified in transverse electric polarization. This offers potential prospects in terahertz imaging, in terahertz stealth technology, in substance identification, and in non-planar applications. The proposed compact experimental set-up can be applied to investigate arbitrary polarization-sensitive terahertz devices under oblique incidence, allowing for a wide reproducibility of the measurements.

Angle amplifier based on multiplexed volume holographic gratings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Liangcai; Zhao, Yifei; He, Qingsheng; Jin, Guofan

2008-03-01

Angle amplifier of laser beam scanner is a widely used device in optical systems. Volume holographic optical elements can be applied in the angle amplifier. Compared with the traditional angle amplifier, it has the advantages of high angle resolution, high diffraction efficiency, small size, and high angle magnification and flexible design. Bragg anglewavelength- compensating recording method is introduced. Because of the Bragg compensatory relation between angle and wavelength, this device could be recorded at another wavelength. The design of the angle amplifier recording at the wavelength of 514.2nm for the working wavelength of 632.8nm is described. An optical setup for recording the angle amplifier device is designed and discussed. Experimental results in the photorefractive crystal Fe:LiNbO 3 demonstrate the feasibility of the angle amplifier scheme.

Design and characterization of an integrated surface ion trap and micromirror optical cavity.

PubMed

Van Rynbach, Andre; Schwartz, George; Spivey, Robert F; Joseph, James; Vrijsen, Geert; Kim, Jungsang

2017-08-10

We have fabricated and characterized laser-ablated micromirrors on fused silica substrates for constructing stable Fabry-Perot optical cavities. We highlight several design features which allow these cavities to have lengths in the 250-300 μm range and be integrated directly with surface ion traps. We present a method to calculate the optical mode shape and losses of these micromirror cavities as functions of cavity length and mirror shape, and confirm that our simulation model is in good agreement with experimental measurements of the intracavity optical mode at a test wavelength of 780 nm. We have designed and tested a mechanical setup for dampening vibrations and stabilizing the cavity length, and explore applications for these cavities as efficient single-photon sources when combined with trapped Yb171 + ions.

On Increasing Network Lifetime in Body Area Networks Using Global Routing with Energy Consumption Balancing

PubMed Central

Tsouri, Gill R.; Prieto, Alvaro; Argade, Nikhil

2012-01-01

Global routing protocols in wireless body area networks are considered. Global routing is augmented with a novel link cost function designed to balance energy consumption across the network. The result is a substantial increase in network lifetime at the expense of a marginal increase in energy per bit. Network maintenance requirements are reduced as well, since balancing energy consumption means all batteries need to be serviced at the same time and less frequently. The proposed routing protocol is evaluated using a hardware experimental setup comprising multiple nodes and an access point. The setup is used to assess network architectures, including an on-body access point and an off-body access point with varying number of antennas. Real-time experiments are conducted in indoor environments to assess performance gains. In addition, the setup is used to record channel attenuation data which are then processed in extensive computer simulations providing insight on the effect of protocol parameters on performance. Results demonstrate efficient balancing of energy consumption across all nodes, an average increase of up to 40% in network lifetime corresponding to a modest average increase of 0.4 dB in energy per bit, and a cutoff effect on required transmission power to achieve reliable connectivity. PMID:23201987

On increasing network lifetime in body area networks using global routing with energy consumption balancing.

PubMed

Tsouri, Gill R; Prieto, Alvaro; Argade, Nikhil

2012-09-26

Global routing protocols in wireless body area networks are considered. Global routing is augmented with a novel link cost function designed to balance energy consumption across the network. The result is a substantial increase in network lifetime at the expense of a marginal increase in energy per bit. Network maintenance requirements are reduced as well, since balancing energy consumption means all batteries need to be serviced at the same time and less frequently. The proposed routing protocol is evaluated using a hardware experimental setup comprising multiple nodes and an access point. The setup is used to assess network architectures, including an on-body access point and an off-body access point with varying number of antennas. Real-time experiments are conducted in indoor environments to assess performance gains. In addition, the setup is used to record channel attenuation data which are then processed in extensive computer simulations providing insight on the effect of protocol parameters on performance. Results demonstrate efficient balancing of energy consumption across all nodes, an average increase of up to 40% in network lifetime corresponding to a modest average increase of 0.4 dB in energy per bit, and a cutoff effect on required transmission power to achieve reliable connectivity.

Energy transport in cooling device by magnetic fluid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamaguchi, Hiroshi; Iwamoto, Yuhiro

2017-06-01

Temperature sensitive magnetic fluid has a great potential with high performance heat transport ability as well as long distance energy (heat) transporting. In the present study experimental set-up was newly designed and constructed in order to measure basic heat transport characteristics under various magnetic field conditions. Angular dependence for the device (heat transfer section) was also taken into consideration for a sake of practical applications. The energy transfer characteristic (heat transport capability) in the magnetically-driven heat transport (cooling) device using the binary TSMF was fully investigated with the set-up. The obtained results indicate that boiling of the organic mixture (before the magnetic fluid itself reaching boiling point) effectively enhances the heat transfer as well as boosting the flow to circulate in the closed loop by itself. A long-distance heat transport of 5 m is experimentally confirmed, transferring the thermal energy of 35.8 W, even when the device (circulation loop) is horizontally placed. The highlighted results reveal that the proposed cooling device is innovative in a sense of transporting substantial amount of thermal energy (heat) as well as a long distance heat transport. The development of the magnetically-driven heat transport device has a great potential to be replaced for the conventional heat pipe in application of thermal engineering.

Increasing Helicity to Achieve a Dynamo State on the Three-Meter Model of the Earth's Core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rojas, R.; Perevalov, A.; Lathrop, D. P.

2017-12-01

Dynamo theory describes the generation of magnetic fields in the flows of conducting fluids, for example, in stars and planetary cores. Spherical Couette flows, which are flows between two concentric and independently rotating spheres, is one of the experimental models for achieving this task in the laboratory. We have performed dynamo state search in our three-meter spherical-Couette model reaching up to Reynolds number near 108 with amplifications of the field between 10-30% but without a self-sustained dynamo magnetic field. A recent numerical work [K. Finke and A. Tilgner. Phys. Rev. E, 86:016310, Jul 2012] suggested that a roughened inner core reduces the threshold for dynamo action. The mean flow would have more poloidal component than the one we are generating with our current smooth sphere setup. With baffles flow would be expelled radially outward on the equatorial plane and returned at the poles, with opposite helicities in the two hemispheres. Baffles welded on our smooth inner sphere are proposed to achieve this task. We are working to perform experiments on a scaled water model of our experimental setup with Reynolds number near 105 to measure the helicity improvements of different baffle designs in support of upcoming Three-Meter modifications. We gratefully acknowledge support from NSF EAR-1417148.

Nanotomography endstation at the P05 beamline: Status and perspectives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Greving, I.; Ogurreck, M.; Marschall, F.; Last, A.; Wilde, F.; Dose, T.; Burmester, H.; Lottermoser, L.; Müller, M.; David, C.; Beckmann, F.

2017-06-01

The Imaging Beamline IBL/P05 at the DESY storage ring PETRA III, operated by the Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht, has two dedicated endstations optimized for micro- and nanotomography experiments [1-3]. Here we present the status of the nanotomography endstation, highlight the latest instrumentation upgrades and present first experimental results. In particular in materials science, where structures with ceramics or metallic materials are of interest, X-ray energies of 15 keV and above are required even for sample sizes of several 10 μm in diameter. The P05 imaging beamline is dedicated to materials science and is designed to allow for imaging applications with X-ray energies of 10 to 50 keV. In addition to the full field X-ray microscopy setup, the layout of the nanotomography endstation allows switching to cone-beam configuration. Kinematics for X-ray optics like compound refractive lenses (CRLs), Fresnel zone plates (FZP) or beam-shaping optics are implemented and the installation of a Kirkpatrick Baez-mirror (KB mirror) system is foreseen at a later stage of the beamline development. Altogether this leads to a high flexibility of the nanotomography setup such that the instrument can be tailored to the specific experimental requirements of a range of sample systems.

Modeling of synchrotron-based laboratory simulations of Titan's ionospheric photochemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carrasco, Nathalie; Peng, Zhe; Pernot, Pascal

2014-11-01

The APSIS reactor has been designed to simulate in the laboratory with a VUV synchrotron irradiation the photochemistry occurring in planetary upper atmospheres. A N2-CH4 Titan-like gas mixture has been studied, whose photochemistry in Titan's ionospheric irradiation conditions leads to a coupled chemical network involving both radicals and ions. In the present work, an ion-neutral coupled model is developed to interpret the experimental data, taking into account the uncertainties on the kinetic parameters by Monte Carlo sampling. The model predicts species concentrations in agreement with mass spectrometry measurements of the methane consumption and product blocks intensities. Ion chemistry and in particular dissociative recombination are found to be very important through sensitivity analysis. The model is also applied to complementary environmental conditions, corresponding to Titan's ionospheric average conditions and to another existing synchrotron setup. An innovative study of the correlations between species concentrations identifies two main competitive families, leading respectively to saturated and unsaturated species. We find that the unsaturated growth family, driven by C2H2 , is dominant in Titan's upper atmosphere, as observed by the Cassini INMS. But the saturated species are substantially more intense in the measurements of the two synchrotron experimental setups, and likely originate from catalysis by metallic walls of the reactors.

Comparison of Irrigation Times Using Gravity and High-Pressure Lavage.

PubMed

Muscatelli, Stefano; Howe, Andrea; O'Hara, Nathan N; O'Toole, Robert V; Sprague, Sheila A; Slobogean, Gerard P

2017-05-01

The benefits of high-pressure pulsatile lavage for open fracture irrigation have been controversial based on conflicting experimental animal research. Recently published data definitively demonstrated that irrigation pressure does not affect the incidence of reoperation for the treatment of open fractures. However, proponents of pulsatile lavage argue a faster irrigation time is an important benefit of the high-pressure treatment. The purpose of this study was to determine the difference in irrigation time between gravity and high-pressure lavage. The experimental setup was designed to mimic clinical practice and compared mean irrigation flow times for high-pressure pulsatile lavage and gravity flow with 2 commonly used tube diameters. Each irrigation setup was tested 5 times at 3 different irrigation bag heights. Analysis of variance and Student's t tests were used to compare the mean flow times of 3 irrigation methods at each height and among the 3 heights for each irrigation method. The mean irrigation flow time in the various experimental models ranged from 161 to 243 seconds. Gravity irrigation with wide tubing was significantly faster than pulsatile lavage or gravity with narrow tubing (P<.001). Increasing irrigation bag height had only a marginal effect on the overall flow times (<9% difference). The difference in mean flow time among the testing techniques was slightly longer than 1 minute, which is unlikely to have a material impact on procedural costs, operating times, and subsequent gains in patient safety. [Orthopedics. 2017; 40(3):e413-e416.]. Copyright 2017, SLACK Incorporated.

A Statistical Guide to the Design of Deep Mutational Scanning Experiments

PubMed Central

Matuszewski, Sebastian; Hildebrandt, Marcel E.; Ghenu, Ana-Hermina; Jensen, Jeffrey D.; Bank, Claudia

2016-01-01

The characterization of the distribution of mutational effects is a key goal in evolutionary biology. Recently developed deep-sequencing approaches allow for accurate and simultaneous estimation of the fitness effects of hundreds of engineered mutations by monitoring their relative abundance across time points in a single bulk competition. Naturally, the achievable resolution of the estimated fitness effects depends on the specific experimental setup, the organism and type of mutations studied, and the sequencing technology utilized, among other factors. By means of analytical approximations and simulations, we provide guidelines for optimizing time-sampled deep-sequencing bulk competition experiments, focusing on the number of mutants, the sequencing depth, and the number of sampled time points. Our analytical results show that sampling more time points together with extending the duration of the experiment improves the achievable precision disproportionately compared with increasing the sequencing depth or reducing the number of competing mutants. Even if the duration of the experiment is fixed, sampling more time points and clustering these at the beginning and the end of the experiment increase experimental power and allow for efficient and precise assessment of the entire range of selection coefficients. Finally, we provide a formula for calculating the 95%-confidence interval for the measurement error estimate, which we implement as an interactive web tool. This allows for quantification of the maximum expected a priori precision of the experimental setup, as well as for a statistical threshold for determining deviations from neutrality for specific selection coefficient estimates. PMID:27412710

Implementation of the P barANDA Planar-GEM tracking detector in Monte Carlo simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Divani Veis, Nazila; Ehret, Andre; Firoozabadi, Mohammad M.; Karabowicz, Radoslaw; Maas, Frank; Saito, Nami; Saito, Takehiko R.; Voss, Bernd; PANDA Gem-Tracker Subgroup

2018-02-01

The P barANDA experiment at FAIR will be performed to investigate different aspects of hadron physics using anti-proton beams interacting with a fixed nuclear target. The experimental setup consists of a complex series of detector components covering a large solid angle. A detector with a gaseous active media equipped with gas electron multiplier (GEM) technique will be employed to measure tracks of charged particles at forward direction in order to achieve a high momentum resolution. In this work, a full setup of the GEM tracking detector has been implemented in the P barANDA Monte Carlo simulation package (PandaRoot) based on the current technical and conceptual design, and the expected performance of the P barANDA GEM-tracking detector has been investigated. Furthermore, material-budget studies in terms of the radiation length of the P barANDA GEM-tracking detector have been made in order to investigate the effect of the detector materials and its associated structures to particle measurements.

Performance of velocity vector estimation using an improved dynamic beamforming setup

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Munk, Peter; Jensen, Joergen A.

2001-05-01

Estimation of velocity vectors using transverse spatial modulation has previously been presented. Initially, the velocity estimation was improved using an approximated dynamic beamformer setup instead of a static combined with a new velocity estimation scheme. A new beamformer setup for dynamic control of the acoustic field, based on the Pulsed Plane Wave Decomposition (PPWD), is presented. The PPWD gives an unambiguous relation between a given acoustic field and the time functions needed on an array transducer for transmission. Applying this method for the receive beamformation results in a setup of the beamformer with different filters for each channel for each estimation depth. The method of the PPWD is illustrated by analytical expressions of the decomposed acoustic field and these results are used for simulation. Results of velocity estimates using the new setup are given on the basis of simulated and experimental data. The simulation setup is an attempt to approximate the situation present when performing a scanning of the carotid artery with a linear array. Measurement of the flow perpendicular to the emission direction is possible using the approach of transverse spatial modulation. This is most often the case in a scanning of the carotid artery, where the situation is handled by an angled Doppler setup in the present ultrasound scanners. The modulation period of 2 mm is controlled for a range of 20-40 mm which covers the typical range of the carotid artery. A 6 MHz array on a 128-channel system is simulated. The flow setup in the simulation is based on a vessel with a parabolic flow profile for a 60 and 90-degree flow angle. The experimental results are based on the backscattered signal from a sponge mounted in a stepping device. The bias and std. Dev. Of the velocity estimate are calculated for four different flow angles (50,60,75 and 90 degrees). The velocity vector is calculated using the improved 2D estimation approach at a range of depths.

High pressure gas flow, storage, and displacement in fractured rock—Experimental setup development and application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hadi Mosleh, M.; Turner, M.; Sedighi, M.; Vardon, P. J.

2017-01-01

This paper presents the design, development, and application of a laboratory setup for the experimental investigations of gas flow and reactions in a fractured rock. The laboratory facility comprises (i) a high pressure manometric sorption apparatus, where equilibrium and kinetic phenomena of adsorption and desorption can be examined, (ii) a high pressure triaxial core flooding system where the chemical reactive transport properties or processes can be explored, and (iii) an ancillary system including pure and mixed gas supply and analysis units. Underground conditions, in terms of pore pressure, confining pressure, and temperature, can be replicated using the triaxial core flooding system developed for depths up to 2 km. Core flooding experiments can be conducted under a range of gas injection pressures up to 20 MPa and temperatures up to 338 K. Details of the design considerations and the specification for the critical measuring instruments are described. The newly developed laboratory facility has been applied to study the adsorption of N2, CH4, and CO2 relevant to applications in carbon sequestration in coal and enhanced coalbed methane recovery. Under a wide range of pressures, the flow of helium in a core sample was studied and the evolution of absolute permeability at different effective stress conditions has been investigated. A comprehensive set of high resolution data has been produced on anthracite coal samples from the South Wales coalfield, using the developed apparatus. The results of the applications provide improved insight into the high pressure flow and reaction of various gas species in the coal samples from the South Wales coalfield.

Interoperative efficiency in minimally invasive surgery suites.

PubMed

van Det, M J; Meijerink, W J H J; Hoff, C; Pierie, J P E N

2009-10-01

Performing minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in a conventional operating room (OR) requires additional specialized equipment otherwise stored outside the OR. Before the procedure, the OR team must collect, prepare, and connect the equipment, then take it away afterward. These extra tasks pose a thread to OR efficiency and may lengthen turnover times. The dedicated MIS suite has permanently installed laparoscopic equipment that is operational on demand. This study presents two experiments that quantify the superior efficiency of the MIS suite in the interoperative period. Preoperative setup and postoperative breakdown times in the conventional OR and the MIS suite in an experimental setting and in daily practice were analyzed. In the experimental setting, randomly chosen OR teams simulated the setup and breakdown for a standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) and a complex laparoscopic sigmoid resection (LS). In the clinical setting, the interoperative period for 66 LCs randomly assigned to the conventional OR or the MIS suite were analyzed. In the experimental setting, the setup and breakdown times were significantly shorter in the MIS suite. The difference between the two types of OR increased for the complex procedure: 2:41 min for the LC (p < 0.001) and 10:47 min for the LS (p < 0.001). In the clinical setting, the setup and breakdown times as a whole were not reduced in the MIS suite. Laparoscopic setup and breakdown times were significantly shorter in the MIS suite (mean difference, 5:39 min; p < 0.001). Efficiency during the interoperative period is significantly improved in the MIS suite. The OR nurses' tasks are relieved, which may reduce mental and physical workload and improve job satisfaction and patient safety. Due to simultaneous tasks of other disciplines, an overall turnover time reduction could not be achieved.

Damping measurements in flowing water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coutu, A.; Seeley, C.; Monette, C.; Nennemann, B.; Marmont, H.

2012-11-01

Fluid-structure interaction (FSI), in the form of mass loading and damping, governs the dynamic response of water turbines, such as Francis turbines. Water added mass and damping are both critical quantities in evaluating the dynamic response of the turbine component. Although the effect of fluid added mass is well documented, fluid damping, a critical quantity to limit vibration amplitudes during service, and therefore to help avoiding possible failure of the turbines, has received much less attention in the literature. This paper presents an experimental investigation of damping due to FSI. The experimental setup, designed to create dynamic characteristics similar to the ones of Francis turbine blades is discussed, together with the experimental protocol and examples of measurements obtained. The paper concludes with the calculated damping values and a discussion on the impact of the observed damping behaviour on the response of hydraulic turbine blades to FSI.

A sealed capsule system for biological and liquid shock-recovery experiments.

PubMed

Leighs, James A; Appleby-Thomas, Gareth J; Stennett, Chris; Hameed, Amer; Wilgeroth, James M; Hazell, Paul J

2012-11-01

This paper presents an experimental method designed to one-dimensionally shock load and subsequently recover liquid samples. Resultant loading profiles have been interrogated via hydrocode simulation as the nature of the target did not allow for direct application of the diagnostics typically employed in shock physics (e.g., manganin stress gauges or Heterodyne velocimeter (Het-V)). The target setup has been experimentally tested using aluminium flyer plates accelerated by a 50-mm bore single-stage gas-gun reaching projectile impact velocities of up to ~500 ms(-1) (corresponding to peak pressures of up to ca. 4 GPa being experienced by fluid samples). Recovered capsules survived well showing only minor signs of damage. Modelled gauge traces have been validated through the use of a (slightly modified) experiment in which a Het-V facing the rear of the inner capsule was employed. In these tests, good correlation between simulated and experimental traces was observed.

A sealed capsule system for biological and liquid shock-recovery experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leighs, James A.; Appleby-Thomas, Gareth J.; Stennett, Chris; Hameed, Amer; Wilgeroth, James M.; Hazell, Paul J.

2012-11-01

This paper presents an experimental method designed to one-dimensionally shock load and subsequently recover liquid samples. Resultant loading profiles have been interrogated via hydrocode simulation as the nature of the target did not allow for direct application of the diagnostics typically employed in shock physics (e.g., manganin stress gauges or Heterodyne velocimeter (Het-V)). The target setup has been experimentally tested using aluminium flyer plates accelerated by a 50-mm bore single-stage gas-gun reaching projectile impact velocities of up to ˜500 ms-1 (corresponding to peak pressures of up to ca. 4 GPa being experienced by fluid samples). Recovered capsules survived well showing only minor signs of damage. Modelled gauge traces have been validated through the use of a (slightly modified) experiment in which a Het-V facing the rear of the inner capsule was employed. In these tests, good correlation between simulated and experimental traces was observed.

Variable camber wing based on pneumatic artificial muscles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Weilong; Liu, Libo; Chen, Yijin; Leng, Jinsong

2009-07-01

As a novel bionic actuator, pneumatic artificial muscle has high power to weight ratio. In this paper, a variable camber wing with the pneumatic artificial muscle is developed. Firstly, the experimental setup to measure the static output force of pneumatic artificial muscle is designed. The relationship between the static output force and the air pressure is investigated. Experimental result shows the static output force of pneumatic artificial muscle decreases nonlinearly with increasing contraction ratio. Secondly, the finite element model of the variable camber wing is developed. Numerical results show that the tip displacement of the trailing-edge increases linearly with increasing external load and limited with the maximum static output force of pneumatic artificial muscles. Finally, the variable camber wing model is manufactured to validate the variable camber concept. Experimental result shows that the wing camber increases with increasing air pressure and that it compare very well with the FEM result.

High energy beam impact tests on a LHC tertiary collimator at the CERN high-radiation to materials facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cauchi, Marija; Aberle, O.; Assmann, R. W.; Bertarelli, A.; Carra, F.; Cornelis, K.; Dallocchio, A.; Deboy, D.; Lari, L.; Redaelli, S.; Rossi, A.; Salvachua, B.; Mollicone, P.; Sammut, N.

2014-02-01

The correct functioning of a collimation system is crucial to safely operate highly energetic particle accelerators, such as the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). The requirements to handle high intensity beams can be demanding. In this respect, investigating the consequences of LHC particle beams hitting tertiary collimators (TCTs) in the experimental regions is a fundamental issue for machine protection. An experimental test was designed to investigate the robustness and effects of beam accidents on a fully assembled collimator, based on accident scenarios in the LHC. This experiment, carried out at the CERN High-Radiation to Materials (HiRadMat) facility, involved 440 GeV proton beam impacts of different intensities on the jaws of a horizontal TCT. This paper presents the experimental setup and the preliminary results obtained, together with some first outcomes from visual inspection and a comparison of such results with numerical simulations.

Positron lifetime setup based on DRS4 evaluation board

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petriska, M.; Sojak, S.; Slugeň, V.

2014-04-01

A digital positron lifetime setup based on DRS4 evaluation board designed at the Paul Scherrer Institute has been constructed and tested in the Positron annihilation laboratory Slovak University of Technology Bratislava. The high bandwidth, low power consumption and short readout time make DRS4 chip attractive for positron annihilation lifetime (PALS) setup, replacing traditional ADCs and TDCs. A software for PALS setup online and offline pulse analysis was developed with Qt,Qwt and ALGLIB libraries.

A novel experimental setup for energy loss and charge state measurements in dense moderately coupled plasma using laser-heated hohlraum targets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ortner, A.; Schumacher, D.; Cayzac, W.; Frank, A.; Basko, M. M.; Bedacht, S.; Blazevic, A.; Faik, S.; Kraus, D.; Rienecker, T.; Schaumann, G.; Tauschwitz, An.; Wagner, F.; Roth, M.

2016-03-01

We report on a new experimental setup for ion energy loss measurements in dense moderately coupled plasma which has recently been developed and tested at GSI Darmstadt. A partially ionized, moderately coupled carbon plasma (ne ≤ 0.8• 1022 cm-3, Te = 15 eV, z = 2.5, Γ = 0.5) is generated by volumetrical heating of two thin carbon foils with soft X-rays. This plasma is then probed by a bunched heavy ion beam. For that purpose, a special double gold hohlraum target of sub-millimeter size has been developed which efficiently converts intense laser light into thermal radiation and guarantees a gold-free interaction path for the ion beam traversing the carbon plasma. This setup allows to do precise energy loss measurements in non-ideal plasma at the level of 10 percent solid-state density.

Designing the detection system for the CORUS project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalogirou, A.

2013-05-01

CORUS (Cosmic Rays in UK Schools) will be a network of muon detectors based in schools across the UK. Networks similar to CORUS already exist in other countries, such as the Netherlands and USA. The main aim of the project is to teach high schools students about cosmic rays and experimental physics as well as to motivate them to pursue studies in science. A set of muon detectors will be used for this purpose and the objective of this study is to complete the design of the detectors, construct them and test their capabilities and limitations. The most important component of the muon detector is the electronic card used to collect, analyse and output data. A DAQ card used by QuarkNet, a network of detectors in the USA, has been used in the design of the CORUS detectors. Some readily available photomultiplier tubes have also been used, along with an interface board which connects them to the DAQ board. In this study, I tested whether these two components work well together by conducting a series of experiments, intended to be performed by the students, with the nal detector set-up. The end result is that although a number of improvements is needed before the detectors serve their purpose, this particular set-up does not impose any limitations to the experiments that it is intended to be used for.

An evaluation of different setups for simulating lighting characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salters, Bart; Murdoch, Michael; Sekulovksi, Dragan; Chen, Shih-Han; Seuntiens, Pieter

2012-03-01

The advance of technology continuously enables new luminaire designs and concepts. Evaluating such designs has traditionally been done using actual prototypes, in a real environment. The iterations needed to build, verify, and improve luminaire designs incur substantial costs and slow down the design process. A more attractive way is to evaluate designs using simulations, as they can be made cheaper and quicker for a wider variety of prototypes. However, the value of such simulations is determined by how closely they predict the outcome of actual perception experiments. In this paper, we discuss an actual perception experiment including several lighting settings in a normal office environment. The same office environment also has been modeled using different software tools, and photo-realistic renderings have been created of these models. These renderings were subsequently processed using various tonemapping operators in preparation for display. The total imaging chain can be considered a simulation setup, and we have executed several perception experiments on different setups. Our real interest is in finding which imaging chain gives us the best result, or in other words, which of them yields the closest match between virtual and real experiment. To answer this question, first of all an answer has to be found to the question, "which simulation setup matches the real world best?" As there is no unique, widely accepted measure to describe the performance of a certain setup, we consider a number of options and discuss the reasoning behind them along with their advantages and disadvantages.

Application of activation methods on the Dubna experimental transmutation set-ups.

PubMed

Stoulos, S; Fragopoulou, M; Adloff, J C; Debeauvais, M; Brandt, R; Westmeier, W; Krivopustov, M; Sosnin, A; Papastefanou, C; Zamani, M; Manolopoulou, M

2003-02-01

High spallation neutron fluxes were produced by irradiating massive heavy targets with proton beams in the GeV range. The experiments were performed at the Dubna High Energy Laboratory using the nuclotron accelerator. Two different experimental set-ups were used to produce neutron spectra convenient for transmutation of radioactive waste by (n,x) reactions. By a theoretical analysis neutron spectra can be reproduced from activation measurements. Thermal-epithermal and fast-super-fast neutron fluxes were estimated using the 197Au, 238U (n,gamma) and (n,2n) reactions, respectively. Depleted uranium transmutation rates were also studied in both experiments.

Development of an experimental setup for testing the properties of γ/γ' superalloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Christophe, Siret; Bernard, Viguier; Claude, Salabura Jean; Eric, Andrieu; Sandrine, Lesterlin

2010-07-01

Certification tests on turboshaft engines for helicopters can expose components as high pressure turbine blades to very high temperature during short time periods. To simulate these complex temperature and mechanical stress loadings and to study dimensional and microstructural stability under severe testing conditions, an experimental set-up has been recently developed. In this paper, we first present this new device and describe its performances. Then, the device is used to study the effect of heating procedure on creep results at 1200°C and rafting during primary creep on the single crystal nickel-based superalloy MC2.

Millimeter- and submillimeter-wave characterization of various fabrics.

PubMed

Dunayevskiy, Ilya; Bortnik, Bartosz; Geary, Kevin; Lombardo, Russell; Jack, Michael; Fetterman, Harold

2007-08-20

Transmission measurements of 14 fabrics are presented in the millimeter-wave and submillimeter-wave electromagnetic regions from 130 GHz to 1.2 THz. Three independent sources and experimental set-ups were used to obtain accurate results over a wide spectral range. Reflectivity, a useful parameter for imaging applications, was also measured for a subset of samples in the submillimeter-wave regime along with polarization sensitivity of the transmitted beam and transmission through doubled layers. All of the measurements were performed in free space. Details of these experimental set-ups along with their respective challenges are presented.

COSY-11: an Experimental Facility for Studying Meson Production in Free and Quasi-free Nucleon-Nucleon Collisions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Klaja, P.; Janusz, M.; Jarczyk, L.

2005-10-26

The COSY-11 experimental setup is an internal facility installed at the COoler SYnchrotron COSY in Juelich. It allows to investigate meson production in free and quasi-free nucleon-nucleon collisions, eg. pp {yields} pp meson and pd {yields} pspnp meson reactions. Drift chambers and scintillators permit to measure outgoing protons, separated in the magnetic field of the COSY-11 dipole. Neutrons are registered in the neutron modular detector installed downstream from the target. Recently, the experimental setup has been extended with spectator detector, deuteron drift chamber and polarization monitoring system, and since then meson production can be investigated also as a function ofmore » spin and isospin of colliding nucleons.« less

Looking for Speed!! Go Optical Ultra-Fast Photonic Logic Gates for the Future Optical Communication and Computing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abdeldayem, Hossin; Frazier, Donald O.; Penn, Benjamin; Paley, Mark S.

2003-01-01

Recently, we developed two ultra-fast all-optical switches in the nanosecond and picosecond regimes. The picosecond switch is made of a polydiacetylene thin film coated on the interior wall of a hollow capillary of approximately 50 micron diameter by a photo-polymerization process. In the setup a picosecond Nd:YAG laser at 10 Hz and at 532 nm with a pulse duration of approximately 40 ps was sent collinearly along a cw He-Ne laser beam and both were waveguided through the hollow capillary. The setup functioned as an Exclusive OR gate. On the other hand, the material used in the nanosecond switch is a phthalocyanine thin film, deposited on a glass substrate by a vapor deposition technique. In the setup a nanosecond, 10 Hz, Nd:YAG laser of 8 ns pulse duration was sent collinearly along a cw He-Ne laser beam and both were wave-guided through the phthalocyanine thin film. The setup in this case functioned as an all-optical AND logic gate. The characteristic table of the ExOR gate in polydiacetylene film was attributed to an excited state absorption process, while that of the AND gate was attributed to a saturation process of the first excited state. Both mechanisms were thoroughly investigated theoretically and found to agree remarkably well with the experimental results. An all-optical inverter gate has been designed but has not yet been demonstrated. The combination of all these three gates form the foundation for building all the necessary gates needed to build a prototype of an all-optical system.

GRAPhEME: a setup to measure (n, xn γ) reaction cross sections

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Henning, Greg; Bacquias, A.; Capdevielle, O.

2015-07-01

Most of nuclear reactor developments are using evaluated data base for numerical simulations. However, the considered databases present still large uncertainties and disagreements. To improve their level of precision, new measurements are needed, in particular for (n, xn) reactions, which are of great importance as they modify the neutron spectrum, the neutron population, and produce radioactive species. The IPHC group started an experimental program to measure (n, xn gamma) reaction cross sections using prompt gamma spectroscopy and neutron energy determination by time of flight. Measurements of (n, xn gamma) cross section have been performed for {sup 235,238}U, {sup 232}Th, {supmore » nat,182,183,184,186}W, {sup nat}Zr. The experimental setup is installed at the neutron beam at GELINA (Geel, Belgium). The setup has recently been upgraded with the addition of a highly segmented 36 pixels planar HPGe detector. Significant efforts have been made to reduce radiation background and electromagnetic perturbations. The setup is equipped with a high rate digital acquisition system. The analysis of the segmented detector data requires a specific procedure to account for cross signals between pixels. An overall attention is paid to the precision of the measurement. The setup characteristic and the analysis procedure will be presented along with the acquisition and analysis challenges. Examples of results and their impact on models will be discussed. (authors)« less

Experimental and numerical study of control of flow separation of a symmetric airfoil with trapped vortex cavity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shahid, Abdullah Bin; Mashud, Mohammad

2017-06-01

This paper summarizes the experimental campaign and numerical analysis performed aimed to analyze the potential benefit available employing a trapping vortex cell system on a high thickness symmetric aero-foil without steady suction or injection mass flow. In this work, the behavior of a two dimensional model equipped with a span wise adjusted circular cavity has been researched. Pressure distribution on the model surface and inside and the complete flow field round the model have been measured. Experimental tests have been performed varying the wind tunnel speed and also the angle of attack. For numerical analysis the two dimensional model of the airfoil and the mesh is formed through ANSYS Meshing that is run in Fluent for numerical iterate solution. In the paper the performed test campaign, the airfoil design, the adopted experimental set-up, the numerical analysis, the data post process and the results description are reported, compared a discussed.

Experimental verification of an indefinite causal order

PubMed Central

Rubino, Giulia; Rozema, Lee A.; Feix, Adrien; Araújo, Mateus; Zeuner, Jonas M.; Procopio, Lorenzo M.; Brukner, Časlav; Walther, Philip

2017-01-01

Investigating the role of causal order in quantum mechanics has recently revealed that the causal relations of events may not be a priori well defined in quantum theory. Although this has triggered a growing interest on the theoretical side, creating processes without a causal order is an experimental task. We report the first decisive demonstration of a process with an indefinite causal order. To do this, we quantify how incompatible our setup is with a definite causal order by measuring a “causal witness.” This mathematical object incorporates a series of measurements that are designed to yield a certain outcome only if the process under examination is not consistent with any well-defined causal order. In our experiment, we perform a measurement in a superposition of causal orders—without destroying the coherence—to acquire information both inside and outside of a “causally nonordered process.” Using this information, we experimentally determine a causal witness, demonstrating by almost 7 SDs that the experimentally implemented process does not have a definite causal order. PMID:28378018

Microfluidics on liquid handling stations (μF-on-LHS): an industry compatible chip interface between microfluidics and automated liquid handling stations.

PubMed

Waldbaur, Ansgar; Kittelmann, Jörg; Radtke, Carsten P; Hubbuch, Jürgen; Rapp, Bastian E

2013-06-21

We describe a generic microfluidic interface design that allows the connection of microfluidic chips to established industrial liquid handling stations (LHS). A molding tool has been designed that allows fabrication of low-cost disposable polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) chips with interfaces that provide convenient and reversible connection of the microfluidic chip to industrial LHS. The concept allows complete freedom of design for the microfluidic chip itself. In this setup all peripheral fluidic components (such as valves and pumps) usually required for microfluidic experiments are provided by the LHS. Experiments (including readout) can be carried out fully automated using the hardware and software provided by LHS manufacturer. Our approach uses a chip interface that is compatible with widely used and industrially established LHS which is a significant advancement towards near-industrial experimental design in microfluidics and will greatly facilitate the acceptance and translation of microfluidics technology in industry.

Norm-Optimal ILC Applied to a High-Speed Rack Feeder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schindele, Dominik; Aschemann, Harald; Ritzke, Jöran

2010-09-01

Rack feeders as automated conveying systems for high bay rackings are of high practical importance. To shorten the transport times by using trajectories with increased kinematic values accompanying control measures for a reduction of the excited structural vibrations are necessary. In this contribution, the model-based design of a norm-optimal iterative learning control structure is presented. The rack feeder is modelled as an elastic multibody system. For the mathematical description of the bending deflections a Ritz ansatz is introduced. The tracking control design is performed separately for both axes using decentralised state space representations. Both the achievable performance and the resulting tracking accuracy of the proposed control concept are shown by measurement results from the experimental set-up.

Learning Abstract Physical Concepts from Experience: Design and Use of an RC Circuit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parra, Alfredo; Ordenes, Jorge; de la Fuente, Milton

2018-05-01

Science learning for undergraduate students requires grasping a great number of theoretical concepts in a rather short time. In our experience, this is especially difficult when students are required to simultaneously use abstract concepts, mathematical reasoning, and graphical analysis, such as occurs when learning about RC circuits. We present a simple experimental model in this work that allows students to easily design, build, and analyze RC circuits, thus providing an opportunity to test personal ideas, build graphical descriptions, and explore the meaning of the respective mathematical models, ultimately gaining a better grasp of the concepts involved. The result suggests that the simple setup indeed helps untrained students to visualize the essential points of this kind of circuit.

A New Optical Scheme for a Polarimetric-Based Glucose Sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ansari, Rafat R.; Boeckle, Stefan; Rovati, Luigi; Salzman, Jack A. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

We describe a new optical scheme to perform polarimetric measurements to detect glucose concentration in the aqueous humor of a model eye. The ultimate aim is to apply this technique in designing a new instrument for measuring glucose levels in diabetic patients routinely, frequently, and non-invasively. The scheme exploits the Brewsterreflection of circularly polarized light off of the lens of the eye. Theoretically, this backreflected linearly polarized light on its way to the detector is expected to rotate its state of polarization due to the presence of glucose molecules in the aqueous humor of patients. An experimental laboratory setup based on this scheme was designed and tested by measuring a range of known concentration of glucose solutions dissolved in water.

Commissioning and quality assurance of an integrated system for patient positioning and setup verification in particle therapy.

PubMed

Pella, A; Riboldi, M; Tagaste, B; Bianculli, D; Desplanques, M; Fontana, G; Cerveri, P; Seregni, M; Fattori, G; Orecchia, R; Baroni, G

2014-08-01

In an increasing number of clinical indications, radiotherapy with accelerated particles shows relevant advantages when compared with high energy X-ray irradiation. However, due to the finite range of ions, particle therapy can be severely compromised by setup errors and geometric uncertainties. The purpose of this work is to describe the commissioning and the design of the quality assurance procedures for patient positioning and setup verification systems at the Italian National Center for Oncological Hadrontherapy (CNAO). The accuracy of systems installed in CNAO and devoted to patient positioning and setup verification have been assessed using a laser tracking device. The accuracy in calibration and image based setup verification relying on in room X-ray imaging system was also quantified. Quality assurance tests to check the integration among all patient setup systems were designed, and records of daily QA tests since the start of clinical operation (2011) are presented. The overall accuracy of the patient positioning system and the patient verification system motion was proved to be below 0.5 mm under all the examined conditions, with median values below the 0.3 mm threshold. Image based registration in phantom studies exhibited sub-millimetric accuracy in setup verification at both cranial and extra-cranial sites. The calibration residuals of the OTS were found consistent with the expectations, with peak values below 0.3 mm. Quality assurance tests, daily performed before clinical operation, confirm adequate integration and sub-millimetric setup accuracy. Robotic patient positioning was successfully integrated with optical tracking and stereoscopic X-ray verification for patient setup in particle therapy. Sub-millimetric setup accuracy was achieved and consistently verified in daily clinical operation.

A magnetorheological fluid locking device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kavlicoglu, Barkan; Liu, Yanming

2011-04-01

A magnetorheological fluid (MRF) device is designed to provide a static locking force caused by the operation of a controllable MRF valve. The intent is to introduce an MRF device which provides the locking force of a fifth wheel coupler while maintaining the "powerless" locking capability when required. A passive magnetic field supplied by a permanent magnet provides a powerless locking resistance force. The passively closed MRF valve provides sufficient reaction force to eliminate axial displacement to a pre-defined force value. Unlocking of the device is provided by means of an electromagnet which re-routes the magnetic field distribution along the MR valve, and minimizes the resistance. Three dimensional electromagnetic finite element analyses are performed to optimize the MRF lock valve performance. The MRF locking valve is fabricated and tested for installation on a truck fifth wheel application. An experimental setup, resembling actual working conditions, is designed and tests are conducted on vehicle interface schemes. The powerless-locking capacity and the unlocking process with minimal resistance are experimentally demonstrated.

Experiment for validation of fluid-structure interaction models and algorithms.

PubMed

Hessenthaler, A; Gaddum, N R; Holub, O; Sinkus, R; Röhrle, O; Nordsletten, D

2017-09-01

In this paper a fluid-structure interaction (FSI) experiment is presented. The aim of this experiment is to provide a challenging yet easy-to-setup FSI test case that addresses the need for rigorous testing of FSI algorithms and modeling frameworks. Steady-state and periodic steady-state test cases with constant and periodic inflow were established. Focus of the experiment is on biomedical engineering applications with flow being in the laminar regime with Reynolds numbers 1283 and 651. Flow and solid domains were defined using computer-aided design (CAD) tools. The experimental design aimed at providing a straightforward boundary condition definition. Material parameters and mechanical response of a moderately viscous Newtonian fluid and a nonlinear incompressible solid were experimentally determined. A comprehensive data set was acquired by using magnetic resonance imaging to record the interaction between the fluid and the solid, quantifying flow and solid motion. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. International Journal for Numerical Methods in Biomedical Engineering published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Active buckling control of a beam-column with circular cross-section using piezo-elastic supports and integral LQR control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schaeffner, Maximilian; Götz, Benedict; Platz, Roland

2016-06-01

Buckling of slender beam-columns subject to axial compressive loads represents a critical design constraint for light-weight structures. Active buckling control provides a possibility to stabilize slender beam-columns by active lateral forces or bending moments. In this paper, the potential of active buckling control of an axially loaded beam-column with circular solid cross-section by piezo-elastic supports is investigated experimentally. In the piezo-elastic supports, lateral forces of piezoelectric stack actuators are transformed into bending moments acting in arbitrary directions at the beam-column ends. A mathematical model of the axially loaded beam-column is derived to design an integral linear quadratic regulator (LQR) that stabilizes the system. The effectiveness of the stabilization concept is investigated in an experimental test setup and compared with the uncontrolled system. With the proposed active buckling control it is possible to stabilize the beam-column in arbitrary lateral direction for axial loads up to the theoretical critical buckling load of the system.

Experimental validation of phase-only pre-compensation over 494  m free-space propagation.

PubMed

Brady, Aoife; Berlich, René; Leonhard, Nina; Kopf, Teresa; Böttner, Paul; Eberhardt, Ramona; Reinlein, Claudia

2017-07-15

It is anticipated that ground-to-geostationary orbit (GEO) laser communication will benefit from pre-compensation of atmospheric turbulence for laser beam propagation through the atmosphere. Theoretical simulations and laboratory experiments have determined its feasibility; extensive free-space experimental validation has, however, yet to be fulfilled. Therefore, we designed and implemented an adaptive optical (AO)-box which pre-compensates an outgoing laser beam (uplink) using the measurements of an incoming beam (downlink). The setup was designed to approximate the baseline scenario over a horizontal test range of 0.5 km and consisted of a ground terminal with the AO-box and a simplified approximation of a satellite terminal. Our results confirmed that we could focus the uplink beam on the satellite terminal using AO under a point-ahead angle of 28 μrad. Furthermore, we demonstrated a considerable increase in the intensity received at the satellite. These results are further testimony to AO pre-compensation being a viable technique to enhance Earth-to-GEO optical communication.

Design of a setup for 252Cf neutron source for storage and analysis purpose

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hei, Daqian; Zhuang, Haocheng; Jia, Wenbao; Cheng, Can; Jiang, Zhou; Wang, Hongtao; Chen, Da

2016-11-01

252Cf is a reliable isotopic neutron source and widely used in the prompt gamma ray neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) technique. A cylindrical barrel made by polymethyl methacrylate contained with the boric acid solution was designed for storage and application of a 5 μg 252Cf neutron source. The size of the setup was optimized with Monte Carlo code. The experiments were performed and the results showed the doses were reduced with the setup and less than the allowable limit. The intensity and collimating radius of the neutron beam could also be adjusted through different collimator.

Inverse analysis of water profile in starch by non-contact photopyroelectric method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frandas, A.; Duvaut, T.; Paris, D.

2000-07-01

The photopyroelectric (PPE) method in a non-contact configuration was proposed to study water migration in starch sheets used for biodegradable packaging. A 1-D theoretical model was developed, allowing the study of samples having a water profile characterized by an arbitrary continuous function. An experimental setup was designed or this purpose which included the choice of excitation source, detection of signals, signal and data processing, and cells for conditioning the samples. We report here the development of an inversion procedure allowing for the determination of the parameters that influence the PPE signal. This procedure led to the optimization of experimental conditions in order to identify the parameters related to the water profile in the sample, and to monitor the dynamics of the process.

Conceptual design of the AGATA 1 π array at GANIL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clément, E.; Michelagnoli, C.; de France, G.; Li, H. J.; Lemasson, A.; Barthe Dejean, C.; Beuzard, M.; Bougault, P.; Cacitti, J.; Foucher, J.-L.; Fremont, G.; Gangnant, P.; Goupil, J.; Houarner, C.; Jean, M.; Lefevre, A.; Legeard, L.; Legruel, F.; Maugeais, C.; Ménager, L.; Ménard, N.; Munoz, H.; Ozille, M.; Raine, B.; Ropert, J. A.; Saillant, F.; Spitaels, C.; Tripon, M.; Vallerand, Ph.; Voltolini, G.; Korten, W.; Salsac, M.-D.; Theisen, Ch.; Zielińska, M.; Joannem, T.; Karolak, M.; Kebbiri, M.; Lotode, A.; Touzery, R.; Walter, Ch.; Korichi, A.; Ljungvall, J.; Lopez-Martens, A.; Ralet, D.; Dosme, N.; Grave, X.; Karkour, N.; Lafay, X.; Legay, E.; Kojouharov, I.; Domingo-Pardo, C.; Gadea, A.; Pérez-Vidal, R. M.; Civera, J. V.; Birkenbach, B.; Eberth, J.; Hess, H.; Lewandowski, L.; Reiter, P.; Nannini, A.; De Angelis, G.; Jaworski, G.; John, P.; Napoli, D. R.; Valiente-Dobón, J. J.; Barrientos, D.; Bortolato, D.; Benzoni, G.; Bracco, A.; Brambilla, S.; Camera, F.; Crespi, F. C. L.; Leoni, S.; Million, B.; Pullia, A.; Wieland, O.; Bazzacco, D.; Lenzi, S. M.; Lunardi, S.; Menegazzo, R.; Mengoni, D.; Recchia, F.; Bellato, M.; Isocrate, R.; Egea Canet, F. J.; Didierjean, F.; Duchêne, G.; Baumann, R.; Brucker, M.; Dangelser, E.; Filliger, M.; Friedmann, H.; Gaudiot, G.; Grapton, J.-N.; Kocher, H.; Mathieu, C.; Sigward, M.-H.; Thomas, D.; Veeramootoo, S.; Dudouet, J.; Stézowski, O.; Aufranc, C.; Aubert, Y.; Labiche, M.; Simpson, J.; Burrows, I.; Coleman-Smith, P. J.; Grant, A.; Lazarus, I. H.; Morrall, P. S.; Pucknell, V. F. E.; Boston, A.; Judson, D. S.; Lalović, N.; Nyberg, J.; Collado, J.; González, V.; Kuti, I.; Nyakó, B. M.; Maj, A.; Rudigier, M.

2017-05-01

The Advanced GAmma Tracking Array (AGATA) has been installed at the GANIL facility, Caen-France. This set-up exploits the stable and radioactive heavy-ions beams delivered by the cyclotron accelerator complex of GANIL. Additionally, it benefits from a large palette of ancillary detectors and spectrometers to address in-beam γ-ray spectroscopy of exotic nuclei. The set-up has been designed to couple AGATA with a magnetic spectrometer, charged-particle and neutron detectors, scintillators for the detection of high-energy γ rays and other devices such as a plunger to measure nuclear lifetimes. In this paper, the design and the mechanical characteristics of the set-up are described. Based on simulations, expected performances of the AGATA 1 π array are presented.

A Monte Carlo simulation and setup optimization of output efficiency to PGNAA thermal neutron using 252Cf neutrons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Jin-Zhao; Tuo, Xian-Guo

2014-07-01

We present the design and optimization of a prompt γ-ray neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) thermal neutron output setup based on Monte Carlo simulations using MCNP5 computer code. In these simulations, the moderator materials, reflective materials, and structure of the PGNAA 252Cf neutrons of thermal neutron output setup are optimized. The simulation results reveal that the thin layer paraffin and the thick layer of heavy water moderating effect work best for the 252Cf neutron spectrum. Our new design shows a significantly improved performance of the thermal neutron flux and flux rate, that are increased by 3.02 times and 3.27 times, respectively, compared with the conventional neutron source design.

Commissioning of the BRIKEN beta-delayed neutron detector for the study of exotic neutron-rich nuclei

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tolosa-Delgado, A.; Agramunt, J.; Ahn, D. S.; Algora, A.; Baba, H.; Bae, S.; Brewer, N. T.; Caballero Folch, R.; Calvino, F.; Coleman-Smith, P. J.; Cortes, G.; Davinson, T.; Dillmann, I.; Domingo-Pardo, C.; Estrade, A.; Fukuda, N.; Go, S.; Griffin, C. J.; Grzywacz, R.; Ha, J.; Hall, O.; Harkness-Brennan, L.; Isobe, T.; Kahl, D.; Kiss, G. G.; Kogimtzis, M.; Kubono, S.; Labiche, M.; Lazarus, I.; Lee, J.; Liu, J.; Lorusso, G.; Matsui, K.; Miernik, K.; Montes, F.; Moon, B.; Morales, A. I.; Nepal, N.; Nishimura, S.; Page, R. D.; Phong, V. H.; Podolyak, Z.; Pucknell, V. F. E.; Rasco, B. C.; Regan, P.; Riego, A.; Rubio, B.; Rykaczewski, K. P.; Saito, Y.; Sakurai, H.; Shimizu, Y.; Simpson, J.; Söderström, P.-A.; Stracener, D. W.; Sumikama, T.; Suzuki, H.; Tain, J. L.; Takechi, M.; Takeda, H.; Tarifeño-Saldivia, A.; Thomas, S. L.; Woods, P.

2018-01-01

The commissioning of a new setup for β-delayed neutron measurements was carried out successfully in November-2016, at the RIKEN Nishina Center in Japan. The β-decay half-lives and Pn branching ratios of several isotopes in the 78Ni region were measured. Details of the experimental setup and the first results are given.

Quantitative comparisons of analogue models of brittle wedge dynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schreurs, Guido

2010-05-01

Analogue model experiments are widely used to gain insights into the evolution of geological structures. In this study, we present a direct comparison of experimental results of 14 analogue modelling laboratories using prescribed set-ups. A quantitative analysis of the results will document the variability among models and will allow an appraisal of reproducibility and limits of interpretation. This has direct implications for comparisons between structures in analogue models and natural field examples. All laboratories used the same frictional analogue materials (quartz and corundum sand) and prescribed model-building techniques (sieving and levelling). Although each laboratory used its own experimental apparatus, the same type of self-adhesive foil was used to cover the base and all the walls of the experimental apparatus in order to guarantee identical boundary conditions (i.e. identical shear stresses at the base and walls). Three experimental set-ups using only brittle frictional materials were examined. In each of the three set-ups the model was shortened by a vertical wall, which moved with respect to the fixed base and the three remaining sidewalls. The minimum width of the model (dimension parallel to mobile wall) was also prescribed. In the first experimental set-up, a quartz sand wedge with a surface slope of ˜20° was pushed by a mobile wall. All models conformed to the critical taper theory, maintained a stable surface slope and did not show internal deformation. In the next two experimental set-ups, a horizontal sand pack consisting of alternating quartz sand and corundum sand layers was shortened from one side by the mobile wall. In one of the set-ups a thin rigid sheet covered part of the model base and was attached to the mobile wall (i.e. a basal velocity discontinuity distant from the mobile wall). In the other set-up a basal rigid sheet was absent and the basal velocity discontinuity was located at the mobile wall. In both types of experiments, models accommodated initial shortening by a forward- and a backward-verging thrust. Further shortening was taken up by in-sequence formation of forward-verging thrusts. In all experiments, boundary stresses created significant drag of structures along the sidewalls. We therefore compared the surface slope and the location, dip angle and spacing of thrusts in sections through the central part of the model. All models show very similar cross-sectional evolutions demonstrating reproducibility of first-order experimental observations. Nevertheless, there are significant along-strike variations of structures in map view highlighting the limits of interpretations of analogue model results. These variations may be related to the human factor, differences in model width and/or differences in laboratory temperature and especially humidity affecting the mechanical properties of the granular materials. GeoMod2008 Analogue Team: Susanne Buiter, Caroline Burberry, Jean-Paul Callot, Cristian Cavozzi, Mariano Cerca, Ernesto Cristallini, Alexander Cruden, Jian-Hong Chen, Leonardo Cruz, Jean-Marc Daniel, Victor H. Garcia, Caroline Gomes, Céline Grall, Cecilia Guzmán, Triyani Nur Hidayah, George Hilley, Chia-Yu Lu, Matthias Klinkmüller, Hemin Koyi, Jenny Macauley, Bertrand Maillot, Catherine Meriaux, Faramarz Nilfouroushan, Chang-Chih Pan, Daniel Pillot, Rodrigo Portillo, Matthias Rosenau, Wouter P. Schellart, Roy Schlische, Andy Take, Bruno Vendeville, Matteo Vettori, M. Vergnaud, Shih-Hsien Wang, Martha Withjack, Daniel Yagupsky, Yasuhiro Yamada

Model-based metabolism design: constraints for kinetic and stoichiometric models

PubMed Central

Stalidzans, Egils; Seiman, Andrus; Peebo, Karl; Komasilovs, Vitalijs; Pentjuss, Agris

2018-01-01

The implementation of model-based designs in metabolic engineering and synthetic biology may fail. One of the reasons for this failure is that only a part of the real-world complexity is included in models. Still, some knowledge can be simplified and taken into account in the form of optimization constraints to improve the feasibility of model-based designs of metabolic pathways in organisms. Some constraints (mass balance, energy balance, and steady-state assumption) serve as a basis for many modelling approaches. There are others (total enzyme activity constraint and homeostatic constraint) proposed decades ago, but which are frequently ignored in design development. Several new approaches of cellular analysis have made possible the application of constraints like cell size, surface, and resource balance. Constraints for kinetic and stoichiometric models are grouped according to their applicability preconditions in (1) general constraints, (2) organism-level constraints, and (3) experiment-level constraints. General constraints are universal and are applicable for any system. Organism-level constraints are applicable for biological systems and usually are organism-specific, but these constraints can be applied without information about experimental conditions. To apply experimental-level constraints, peculiarities of the organism and the experimental set-up have to be taken into account to calculate the values of constraints. The limitations of applicability of particular constraints for kinetic and stoichiometric models are addressed. PMID:29472367

Optimization and development of solar power system under diffused sunlight condition in rural areas with supercapacitor integration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Castelino, Roystan V.; Jana, Suman; Kumhar, Rajesh; Singh, Niraj K.

2018-04-01

The simulation and hardware based experiment in this presented paper shows a possibility of increasing the reliability of solar power under diffused condition by using super capacitor module. This experimental setup can be used in those areas where the sun light is intermittent and under the diffused radiation condition. Due to diffused radiation, solar PV cells operate very poorly, but by using this setup the power efficiency can be increased greatly. Sometimes dependent numerical models are used to measure the voltage and current response of the hardware setup in MATLAB Simulink based environment. To convert the scattered solar radiation to electricity using the conventional solar PV module, batteries have to be linked with the rapid charging or discharging device like super capacitor module. The conventional method consists of a charging circuit, which dumps the power if the voltage is below certain voltage level, but this circuit utilizes the entire power even if the voltage is low under diffused sun light conditions. There is no power dumped in this circuit. The efficiency and viability of this labscale experimental setup can be examined with further experiment and industrial model.

Flexibility and utility of pre-processing methods in converting STXM setups for ptychography - Final Paper

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fromm, Catherine

2015-08-20

Ptychography is an advanced diffraction based imaging technique that can achieve resolution of 5nm and below. It is done by scanning a sample through a beam of focused x-rays using discrete yet overlapping scan steps. Scattering data is collected on a CCD camera, and the phase of the scattered light is reconstructed with sophisticated iterative algorithms. Because the experimental setup is similar, ptychography setups can be created by retrofitting existing STXM beam lines with new hardware. The other challenge comes in the reconstruction of the collected scattering images. Scattering data must be adjusted and packaged with experimental parameters to calibratemore » the reconstruction software. The necessary pre-processing of data prior to reconstruction is unique to each beamline setup, and even the optical alignments used on that particular day. Pre-processing software must be developed to be flexible and efficient in order to allow experiments appropriate control and freedom in the analysis of their hard-won data. This paper will describe the implementation of pre-processing software which successfully connects data collection steps to reconstruction steps, letting the user accomplish accurate and reliable ptychography.« less

Sci-Sat AM: Radiation Dosimetry and Practical Therapy Solutions - 11: Commissioning of a system for the measurement of electron stopping powers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McEwen, Malcolm; Roy, Timothy; Tessier, Frederic

Purpose: To develop the techniques required to experimentally determine electron stopping powers for application in primary standards and dosimetry protocols. Method and Materials: A large-volume HPGe detector system (>80% efficiency) was commissioned for the measurement of high energy (5–35 MeV) electron beams. As a proof of principle the system was used with a Y-90/Sr-90 radioactive source. Thin plates of absorbing material (< 0.1 gcm-2) were then placed between the source and detector and the emerging electron spectrum was acquired. The full experimental geometry was modelled using the EGSnrc package to validate the detector design, optimize the experimental setup and comparemore » measured and calculated spectra. Results: The biggest challenge using a beta source was to identify a robust spectral parameter to determine for each measurement. An end-point-fitting routine was used to determine the maximum energy, Emax, of the beta spectrum for each absorber thickness t. The parameter dEmax/dt is related to the electron stopping power and the same routine was applied to both measured and simulated spectra. Although the standard uncertainty in dEmax/dt was of the order of 5 %, by taking the ratio of measured and Monte Carlo values for dEmax/dt the uncertainty of the fitting routine was eliminated and the uncertainty was reduced to less than 2 %. The agreement between measurement and simulation was within this uncertainty estimate. Conclusion: The investigation confirmed the experimental approach and demonstrated that EGSnrc could accurately determine correction factors that will be required for the final measurement setup in a linac beam.« less

Operational characteristics of energy storage high temperature superconducting flywheels considering time dependent processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vajda, Istvan; Kohari, Zalan; Porjesz, Tamas; Benko, Laszlo; Meerovich, V.; Sokolovsky; Gawalek, W.

2002-08-01

Technical and economical feasibilities of short-term energy storage flywheels with high temperature superconducting (HTS) bearing are widely investigated. It is essential to reduce the ac losses caused by magnetic field variations in HTS bulk disks/rings (levitators) used in the magnetic bearings of flywheels. For the HTS bearings the calculation and measurement of the magnetic field distribution were performed. Effects like eccentricity, tilting were measured. Time dependency of the levitation force following a jumpwise movement of the permanent magnet was measured. The results were used to setup an engineering design algorithm for energy storage HTS flywheels. This algorithm was applied to an experimental HTS flywheel model with a disk type permanent magnet motor/generator unit designed and constructed by the authors. A conceptual design of the disk-type motor/generator with radial flux is shown.

Proportional-delayed controllers design for LTI-systems: a geometric approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hernández-Díez, J.-E.; Méndez-Barrios, C.-F.; Mondié, S.; Niculescu, S.-I.; González-Galván, E. J.

2018-04-01

This paper focuses on the design of P-δ controllers for single-input-single-output linear time-invariant systems. The basis of this work is a geometric approach allowing to partitioning the parameter space in regions with constant number of unstable roots. This methodology defines the hyper-planes separating the aforementioned regions and characterises the way in which the number of unstable roots changes when crossing such a hyper-plane. The main contribution of the paper is that it provides an explicit tool to find P-δ gains ensuring the stability of the closed-loop system. In addition, the proposed methodology allows to design a non-fragile controller with a desired exponential decay rate σ. Several numerical examples illustrate the results and a haptic experimental set-up shows the effectiveness of P-δ controllers.

Extended mission/lunar rover, executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1992-01-01

The design project selected to be undertaken by the 1991/92 Aerospace Design Group was that of conceptually designing an Extended Mission Rover for use on the Lunar Surface. This vehicle would serve the function as a mobile base of sorts, and be able to provide future astronauts with a mobile 'shirt-sleeve' self-sufficient living and working environment. Some of the proposed missions would be planetary surface exploration, construction and maintenance, hardware set-up and in-situ resource experimentation. The need for this type of vehicle has already been declared in the Stafford Group's report on the future of America's Space Program, entitled 'America at the Threshold: America's Space Exploration Initiative'. In the four architectures described within the report, the concept of a pressurized vehicle occurred multiple times. The approximate time frame that this vehicle would be put into use is 2010-2030.

Simultaneous measurement of dynamic strain and temperature distribution using high birefringence PANDA fiber Bragg grating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Mengshi; Murayama, Hideaki

2017-04-01

New approach in simultaneous measurement of dynamic strain and temperature has been done by using a high birefringence PANDA fiber Bragg grating sensor. By this technique, we have succeeded in discriminating dynamic strain and temperature distribution at the sampling rate of 800 Hz and the spatial resolution of 1 mm. The dynamic distribution of strain and temperature were measured with the deviation of 5mm spatially. In addition, we have designed an experimental setup by which we can apply quantitative dynamic strain and temperature distribution to the fiber under testing without bounding it to a specimen.

Wave-Optics Analysis of Pupil Imaging

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dean, Bruce H.; Bos, Brent J.

2006-01-01

Pupil imaging performance is analyzed from the perspective of physical optics. A multi-plane diffraction model is constructed by propagating the scalar electromagnetic field, surface by surface, along the optical path comprising the pupil imaging optical system. Modeling results are compared with pupil images collected in the laboratory. The experimental setup, although generic for pupil imaging systems in general, has application to the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) optical system characterization where the pupil images are used as a constraint to the wavefront sensing and control process. Practical design considerations follow from the diffraction modeling which are discussed in the context of the JWST Observatory.

Experimental setup for radon exposure and first diffusion studies using gamma spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maier, Andreas; van Beek, Patrick; Hellmund, Johannes; Durante, Marco; Schardt, Dieter; Kraft, Gerhard; Fournier, Claudia

2015-11-01

In order to measure the uptake and diffusion of 222Rn in biological material, an exposure chamber was constructed where cell cultures, biological tissues and mice can be exposed to 222Rn-activities similar to therapy conditions. After exposure, the material is transferred to a gamma spectrometer and the decay of 214Pb and 214Bi is analyzed. From the time kinetics of these decays the total amount of the initial 222Rn concentration can be calculated. In this paper the design and construction as well as first test measurements are reported.

Scientific Research Program for Power, Energy, and Thermal Technologies. Task Order 0002: Power, Thermal and Control Technologies and Processes Experimental Research. Subtask: Laboratory Test Set-up to Evaluate Electromechanical Actuation Systems for Aircraft Flight Control

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-01

faults are incorporated into the system in order to better understand the EMA reliability, and to aid in designing fault detection software for real...to a fixed angle repeatedly and accurately [16]. The motor in the EHA is used to drive a reversible pump tied to a hydraulic cylinder which moves...24] [25] [26]. These test stands are used for the prognostic testing of EMAS that have had mechanical or electrical faults injected into them. The

The ROSPHERE γ-ray spectroscopy array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bucurescu, D.; Căta-Danil, I.; Ciocan, G.; Costache, C.; Deleanu, D.; Dima, R.; Filipescu, D.; Florea, N.; Ghiţă, D. G.; Glodariu, T.; Ivaşcu, M.; Lică, R.; Mărginean, N.; Mărginean, R.; Mihai, C.; Negret, A.; Niţă, C. R.; Olăcel, A.; Pascu, S.; Sava, T.; Stroe, L.; Şerban, A.; Şuvăilă, R.; Toma, S.; Zamfir, N. V.; Căta-Danil, G.; Gheorghe, I.; Mitu, I. O.; Suliman, G.; Ur, C. A.; Braunroth, T.; Dewald, A.; Fransen, C.; Bruce, A. M.; Podolyák, Zs.; Regan, P. H.; Roberts, O. J.

2016-11-01

The ROmanian array for SPectroscopy in HEavy ion REactions (ROSPHERE) has been designed as a multi-detector setup dedicated to γ-ray spectroscopy studies at the Bucharest 9 MV Tandem accelerator. Consisting of up to 25 detectors (either Compton suppressed HPGe detectors or fast LaBr3(Ce) scintillator detectors) together with a state of the art plunger device, ROSPHERE is a powerful tool for lifetime measurements using the Recoil Distance Doppler Shift (RDDS) and the in-beam Fast Electronic Scintillation Timing (FEST) methods. The array's geometry, detectors, electronics and data acquisition system are described. Selected results from the first experimental campaigns are also presented.

Introducing an experimental split-cylinder to study flows with geophysical interest: First steps and first results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodriguez-Garcia, Jesus O.; Burguete, Javier

2017-11-01

A new experimental setup has been developed in order to study rotating flows. Our research is derived from the experiments carried out in our group relating to this kind of flows, and the setup is inspired by the simulations performed by Lopez & Gutierrez-Castillo using a split-cylinder flow. In their work they study the different bifurcations taking place into the flow, among others, finding inertial waves in different configurations of the movement of the split-cylinder. Our setup consists in a split-cylinder in which each half can move in co-rotation or in counter-rotation. Moreover, we can set the rotation velocity of each half independently in order to study these different configurations of the flow. The aspect ratio defined as Γ = H / R can be modified, where H is the internal length of the cylinder and R is its radius. With this setup, we study the flow developed inside the split-cylinder depending on the Reynolds number like the different symmetry-breaking that should appear according to Lopez & Gutierrez-Castillo. To obtain the experimental data we use both laser Doppler velocimetry (LDV) and particle image velocimetry (PIV) techniques. The firsts results got are in the co-rotation case rotating one half faster than the other. We acknowledge support from Spanish Government Grant FIS 2014-54101-P. Jesús O. Rodríguez-García acknowledge research Grant from Asociación de Amigos de la Universidad de Navarra.

Study of materials for space processing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lal, R. B.

1975-01-01

Materials were selected for device applications and their commercial use. Experimental arrangements were also made for electrical characterization of single crystals using electrical resistivity and Hall effect measurements. The experimental set-up was tested with some standard samples.

Design Considerations of a Transverse Flux Machine for Direct-Drive Wind Turbine Applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Husain, Tausif; Hasan, Iftekhar; Sozer, Yilmaz

This paper presents the design considerations of a double-sided transverse flux machine (TFM) for direct-drive wind turbine applications. The proposed TFM has a modular structure with quasi-U stator cores and toroidal ring windings. The rotor is constructed with ferrite magnets in a flux-concentrating setup to achieve high air gap flux density. Pole number selection is critical in the design process of a TFM as it affects both the torque density and power factor under fixed magnetic and changing electrical loading. Several key design ratios are introduced to facilitate the initial design procedure. The effect of pole shaping on back-EMF andmore » inductance is also analyzed. These investigations provide guidance toward the required design of a TFM for direct-drive applications. The analyses are carried out using analytical and three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA). A proof-of-concept prototype was developed to experimentally validate the FEA results.« less

Design Considerations of a Transverse Flux Machine for Direct-Drive Wind Turbine Applications

DOE PAGES

Husain, Tausif; Hasan, Iftekhar; Sozer, Yilmaz; ...

2018-03-12

This paper presents the design considerations of a double-sided transverse flux machine (TFM) for direct-drive wind turbine applications. The proposed TFM has a modular structure with quasi-U stator cores and toroidal ring windings. The rotor is constructed with ferrite magnets in a flux-concentrating setup to achieve high air gap flux density. Pole number selection is critical in the design process of a TFM as it affects both the torque density and power factor under fixed magnetic and changing electrical loading. Several key design ratios are introduced to facilitate the initial design procedure. The effect of pole shaping on back-EMF andmore » inductance is also analyzed. These investigations provide guidance toward the required design of a TFM for direct-drive applications. The analyses are carried out using analytical and three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA). A proof-of-concept prototype was developed to experimentally validate the FEA results.« less

Experimental investigation of all-optical packet-level time slot assignment using two optical buffers cascaded.

PubMed

Sheng, Xinzhi; Feng, Zhen; Li, Bing

2013-04-20

We proposed and experimentally demonstrated all-optical packet-level time slot assignment scheme with two optical buffers cascaded. The function of time-slot interchange (TSI) was successfully implemented on two and three optical packets at a data rate of 10 Gb/s. Therefore, the functions of TSI on N packets should be implemented easily by the use of N-1 stage optical buffer. On the basis of the above experiment, we carried out the TSI experiment on four packets with the same two-stage experimental setup. Furthermore, packets compression on three optical packets was also carried out with the same experimental setup. The shortest guard time of the packets compression can reach to 13 ns due to the limit of FPGA's control accuracy. Due to the use of the same optical buffer, the proposed scheme has the advantages of simple and scalable configuration, modularization, and easy integration.

Masonry Vaults Subjected To Horizontal Loads: Experimental and Numerical Investigations to Evaluate the Effectiveness of A GFRM Reinforcement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gattesco, Natalino; Boem, Ingrid

2017-10-01

The paper investigates the effectiveness of a modern reinforcement technique based on a Glass Fiber-Reinforced Mortar (GFRM) for the enhancement of the performances of existing masonry vaults subjected to horizontal seismic actions. In fact, the authors recently evidenced, through numerical simulations, that the typical simplified loading patterns generally adopted in the literature for the experimental tests, based on concentrated vertical loads at 1/4 of the span, are not reliable for such a purpose, due to an unrealistic stress distribution. Thus, experimental quasi-static cyclic tests on full-scale masonry vaults based on a specific setup, designed to apply a horizontal load pattern proportional to the mass, were performed. Three samples were tested: an unreinforced vault, a vault reinforced at the extrados and a vault reinforced at the intrados. The experimental results demonstrated the technique effectiveness in both strength and ductility. Moreover, numerical simulations were performed by adopting a simplified FE, smear-crack model, evidencing the good reliability of the prediction by comparison with the experimental results.

Design of an Input-Parallel Output-Parallel LLC Resonant DC-DC Converter System for DC Microgrids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Juan, Y. L.; Chen, T. R.; Chang, H. M.; Wei, S. E.

2017-11-01

Compared with the centralized power system, the distributed modularized power system is composed of several power modules with lower power capacity to provide a totally enough power capacity for the load demand. Therefore, the current stress of the power components in each module can then be reduced, and the flexibility of system setup is also enhanced. However, the parallel-connected power modules in the conventional system are usually controlled to equally share the power flow which would result in lower efficiency in low loading condition. In this study, a modular power conversion system for DC micro grid is developed with 48 V dc low voltage input and 380 V dc high voltage output. However, in the developed system control strategy, the numbers of power modules enabled to share the power flow is decided according to the output power at lower load demand. Finally, three 350 W power modules are constructed and parallel-connected to setup a modular power conversion system. From the experimental results, compared with the conventional system, the efficiency of the developed power system in the light loading condition is greatly improved. The modularized design of the power system can also decrease the power loss ratio to the system capacity.

Communication Architecture in Mixed-Reality Simulations of Unmanned Systems

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

Verification of the correct functionality of multi-vehicle systems in high-fidelity scenarios is required before any deployment of such a complex system, e.g., in missions of remote sensing or in mobile sensor networks. Mixed-reality simulations where both virtual and physical entities can coexist and interact have been shown to be beneficial for development, testing, and verification of such systems. This paper deals with the problems of designing a certain communication subsystem for such highly desirable realistic simulations. Requirements of this communication subsystem, including proper addressing, transparent routing, visibility modeling, or message management, are specified prior to designing an appropriate solution. Then, a suitable architecture of this communication subsystem is proposed together with solutions to the challenges that arise when simultaneous virtual and physical message transmissions occur. The proposed architecture can be utilized as a high-fidelity network simulator for vehicular systems with implicit mobility models that are given by real trajectories of the vehicles. The architecture has been utilized within multiple projects dealing with the development and practical deployment of multi-UAV systems, which support the architecture’s viability and advantages. The provided experimental results show the achieved similarity of the communication characteristics of the fully deployed hardware setup to the setup utilizing the proposed mixed-reality architecture. PMID:29538290

Velocity and pressure measurements in guide vane clearance gap of a low specific speed Francis turbine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thapa, B. S.; Dahlhaug, O. G.; Thapa, B.

2016-11-01

In Francis turbine, a small clearance gap between the guide vanes and the cover plates is usually required to pivot guide vanes as a part of governing system. Deflection of cover plates and erosion of mating surfaces causes this gap to increase from its design value. The clearance gap induces the secondary flow in the distributor system. This effects the main flow at the runner inlet, which causes losses in efficiency and instability. A guide vane cascade of a low specific speed Francis turbine has been developed for experimental investigations. The test setup is able to produce similar velocity distributions at the runner inlet as that of a reference prototype turbine. The setup is designed for particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements from the position of stay vane outlet to the position of runner inlet. In this study, velocity and pressure measurements are conducted with 2 mm clearance gap on one side of guide vane. Leakage flow is observed and measured together with pressure measurements. It is concluded that the leakage flow behaves as a jet and mixes with the main flow in cross-wise direction and forms a vortex filament. This causes non-uniform inlet flow conditions at runner blades.

Communication Architecture in Mixed-Reality Simulations of Unmanned Systems.

PubMed

Selecký, Martin; Faigl, Jan; Rollo, Milan

2018-03-14

Verification of the correct functionality of multi-vehicle systems in high-fidelity scenarios is required before any deployment of such a complex system, e.g., in missions of remote sensing or in mobile sensor networks. Mixed-reality simulations where both virtual and physical entities can coexist and interact have been shown to be beneficial for development, testing, and verification of such systems. This paper deals with the problems of designing a certain communication subsystem for such highly desirable realistic simulations. Requirements of this communication subsystem, including proper addressing, transparent routing, visibility modeling, or message management, are specified prior to designing an appropriate solution. Then, a suitable architecture of this communication subsystem is proposed together with solutions to the challenges that arise when simultaneous virtual and physical message transmissions occur. The proposed architecture can be utilized as a high-fidelity network simulator for vehicular systems with implicit mobility models that are given by real trajectories of the vehicles. The architecture has been utilized within multiple projects dealing with the development and practical deployment of multi-UAV systems, which support the architecture's viability and advantages. The provided experimental results show the achieved similarity of the communication characteristics of the fully deployed hardware setup to the setup utilizing the proposed mixed-reality architecture.

A set-up for a biased electrode experiment in ADITYA Tokamak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dhyani, Pravesh; Ghosh, Joydeep; Sathyanarayana, K.; Praveenlal, V. E.; Gautam, Pramila; Shah, Minsha; Tanna, R. L.; Kumar, Pintu; Chavda, C.; Patel, N. C.; Panchal, V.; Gupta, C. N.; Jadeja, K. A.; Bhatt, S. B.; Kumar, S.; Raju, D.; Atrey, P. K.; Joisa, S.; Chattopadhyay, P. K.; Saxena, Y. C.

2014-10-01

An experimental set-up to investigate the effect of a biased electrode introduced in the edge region on ADITYA tokamak discharges is presented. A specially designed double-bellow mechanical assembly is fabricated for controlling the electrode location as well as its exposed length inside the plasma. The cylindrical molybdenum electrode is powered by a capacitor-bank based pulsed power supply (PPS) using a semiconductor controlled rectifier (SCR) as a switch with forced commutation. A Langmuir probe array for radial profile measurements of plasma potential and density is fabricated and installed. Standard results of improvement of global confinement have been obtained using a biased electrode. In addition to that, in this paper we show for the first time that the same biasing system can be used to avoid disruptions through stabilisation of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) modes. Real time disruption control experiments have also been carried out by triggering the bias-voltage on the electrode automatically when the Mirnov probe signal exceeds a preset threshold value using a uniquely designed electronic comparator circuit. Most of the results related to the improved confinement and disruption mitigation are obtained in case of the electrode tip being kept at ~3 cm inside the last closed flux surface (LCFS) with an exposed length of ~20 mm in typical discharges of ADITYA tokamak.

The reliability and validity of a designed setup for the assessment of static back extensor force and endurance in older women with and without hyperkyphosis.

PubMed

Roghani, Taybeh; Khalkhali Zavieh, Minoo; Rahimi, Abbas; Talebian, Saeed; Manshadi, Farideh Dehghan; Akbarzadeh Baghban, Alireza; King, Nicole; Katzman, Wendy

2018-01-25

The purpose of this study was to investigate the intra-rater reliability and validity of a designed load cell setup for the measurement of back extensor muscle force and endurance. The study sample included 19 older women with hyperkyphosis, mean age 67.0 ± 5.0 years, and 14 older women without hyperkyphosis, mean age 63.0 ± 6.0 years. Maximum back extensor force and endurance were measured in a sitting position with a designed load cell setup. Tests were performed by the same examiner on two separate days within a 72-hour interval. The intra-rater reliability of the measurements was analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard errors of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC). The validity of the setup was determined using Pearson correlation analysis and independent t-test. Using our designed load cell, the values of ICC indicated very high reliability of force measurement (hyperkyphosis group: 0.96, normal group: 0.97) and high reliability of endurance measurement (hyperkyphosis group: 0.82, normal group: 0.89). For all tests, the values of SEM and MDC were low in both groups. A significant correlation between two documented forces (load cell force and target force) and significant differences in the muscle force and endurance among the two groups were found. The measurements of static back muscle force and endurance are reliable and valid with our designed setup in older women with and without hyperkyphosis.

Experimental tests of coherence and entanglement conservation under unitary evolutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Černoch, Antonín; Bartkiewicz, Karol; Lemr, Karel; Soubusta, Jan

2018-04-01

We experimentally demonstrate the migration of coherence between composite quantum systems and their subsystems. The quantum systems are implemented using polarization states of photons in two experimental setups. The first setup is based on a linear optical controlled-phase quantum gate and the second scheme utilizes effects of nonlinear optics. Our experiment allows one to verify the relation between correlations of the subsystems and the coherence of the composite system, which was given in terms of a conservation law for maximal accessible coherence by Svozilík et al. [J. Svozilík et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 115, 220501 (2015), 10.1103/PhysRevLett.115.220501]. We observe that the maximal accessible coherence is conserved for the implemented class of global evolutions of the composite system.

Experimental study of the density of the helium-nitrogen gas system at low temperatures.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milyutin, V. A.

2017-11-01

At the Department of TOT, an experimental setup was created to measure the density of a binary gas system from 100 to 300 K and pressures up to 16 MPa and with any mixture compositions. Experimental density for the helium-nitrogen system were determined by the piezometer of constant volume method. The amount of substance in the piezometer was measured by volumetric method. In this setup, the mixture of He - N2 was prepared in a special mixer for a series of p-v-T experiments, the concentration was determined by calculation using the equations of state of pure components. In the experiment, mixtures were prepared with molar concentrations, lying close to the range: 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8.

On the use of response surface methodology to predict and interpret the preferred c-axis orientation of sputtered AlN thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adamczyk, J.; Horny, N.; Tricoteaux, A.; Jouan, P.-Y.; Zadam, M.

2008-01-01

This paper deals with experimental design applied to response surface methodology (RSM) in order to determine the influence of the discharge conditions on preferred c-axis orientation of sputtered AlN thin films. The thin films have been deposited by DC reactive magnetron sputtering on Si (1 0 0) substrates. The preferred orientation was evaluated using a conventional Bragg-Brentano X-ray diffractometer ( θ-2 θ) with the CuKα radiation. We have first determined the experimental domain for 3 parameters: sputtering pressure (2-6 mTorr), discharge current (312-438 mA) and nitrogen percentage (17-33%). For the setup of the experimental design we have used a three factors Doehlert matrix which allows the use of the statistical response surface methodology (RSM) in a spherical domain. A four dimensional surface response, which represents the (0 0 0 2) peak height as a function of sputtering pressure, discharge current and nitrogen percentage, was obtained. It has been found that the main interaction affecting the preferential c-axis orientation was the pressure-nitrogen percentage interaction. It has been proved that a Box-Cox transformation is a very useful method to interpret and discuss the experimental results and leads to predictions in good agreement with experiments.

Design and analysis of field studies with bees: A critical review of the draft EFSA guidance.

PubMed

Bakker, Frank

2016-07-01

The specific protection goal, primary assessment endpoints, acceptable effect thresholds, and experimental design proposed in the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) update of the bee guidance document are subjected to critical review. It is concluded that the negligible effect criteria were established without sufficient regulatory definition and without convincing scientific argumentation. For the assessment endpoints, effects on hive strength lack temporal definition and the reduction to numbers of bees is inappropriate to evaluate effects. Restricting mortality assessments to homing failure is not theoretically justified and specific criteria were incorrectly derived. The combination of acute effect estimates with models for chronic stressors is biased risk assessment and a temporal basis for the acceptability of effects is missing. Effects on overwintering success cannot be experimentally assessed using the proposed criteria. The experimental methodology proposed is inappropriate and the logistical consequences, in particular those related to replication and land use are such that field studies are no longer a feasible option for the risk assessment. It may be necessary to explore new lines of thought for the set-up of field studies and to clearly separate experimentation from monitoring. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2016;12:422-428. © 2015 SETAC. © 2015 SETAC.

Bessel beams with spatial oscillating polarization

PubMed Central

Fu, Shiyao; Zhang, Shikun; Gao, Chunqing

2016-01-01

Bessel beams are widely used in optical metrology mainly because of their large Rayleigh range (focal length). Radial/azimuthal polarization of such beams is of interest in the fields of material processing, plasma absorption or communication. In this paper an experimental set-up is presented, which generates a Bessel-type vector beam with a spatial polarization, oscillating along the optical axis, when propagating in free space. A first holographic axicon (HA) HA1 produces a normal, linearly polarized Bessel beam, which by a second HA2 is converted into the spatial oscillating polarized beam. The theory is briefly discussed, the set-up and the experimental results are presented in detail. PMID:27488174

Real-cinematographic visualization of droplet ejection in thermal ink jets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rembe, Christian; Patzer, Joachim; Hofer, Eberhard P.; Krehl, Peter

1996-03-01

Although thermal ink jet printers have gained a high market share there are still open questions left in the understanding of the processes in ink jet firing chambers. The experimental investigation of these processes is difficult due to the extremely short time durations of the different phenomena. For example, the bubble life time amounts to approximately 20 microsecond(s) . A new experimental set-up is presented to record phenomena of very short time duration like the bubble nucleation process and the beginning of droplet ejection. This set-up allows realcinematographic visualization with a local resolution of less than 1 micrometers and a time resolution of 10 ns. This also offers the possibility to investigate transient processes like the droplet ejection at high printing frequencies. The essential part of the set-up is a new high speed camera. With an exact evaluation of the digitized images the locus, velocity, and acceleration distributions of the phase interface from liquid to vapor/air can be measured. In addition the results of a numerical model with realistic geometry of the firing chamber and the nozzle have been compared with the experimental results to draw conclusions for pressure propagation in the vapor bubble.

Quasi-isentropic compressibility of a strongly nonideal deuterium plasma at pressures of up to 5500 GPa: Nonideality and degeneracy effects

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mochalov, M. A., E-mail: postmaster@ifv.vniief.ru; Il’kaev, R. I.; Fortov, V. E.

We report on the experimental results on the quasi-isentropic compressibility of a strongly nonideal deuterium plasma that have been obtained on setups of cylindrical and spherical geometries in the pressure range of up to P ≈ 5500 GPa. We describe the characteristics of experimental setups, as well as the methods for the diagnostics and interpretation of the experimental results. The trajectory of metal shells that compress the deuterium plasma was detected using powerful pulsed X-ray sources with a maximal electron energy of up to 60 MeV. The values of the plasma density, which varied from ρ ≈ 0.8 g/cm{sup 3}more » to ρ ≈ 6 g/cm{sup 3}, which corresponds to pressure P ≈ 5500 GPa (55 Mbar), were determined from the measured value of the shell radius at the instant that it was stopped. The pressure of the compressed plasma was determined using gasdynamic calculations taking into account the actual characteristics of the experimental setups. We have obtained a strongly compressed deuterium plasma in which electron degeneracy effects under the conditions of strong interparticle interaction are significant. The experimental results have been compared with the theoretical models of a strongly nonideal partly degenerate plasma. We have obtained experimental confirmation of the plasma phase transition in the pressure range near 150 GPa (1.5 Mbar), which is in keeping with the conclusion concerning anomaly in the compressibility of the deuterium plasma drawn in [1].« less

Nonequilibrium thermodynamics of single DNA hairpins in a dual-trap optical tweezers setup

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crivellari, M. Ribezzi; Huguet, J. M.; Ritort, F.

2011-03-01

We use two counter propagating laser beams to create a dual trap optical tweezers setup which is free from cross interference between the beams and provides great instrumental stability. This setup works by direct measurement of light momentum, separately for each trap, and is based on the Minitweezers design [1]. The dual trap setup has many applications: it can be used to study the force-dependent unfolding kinetics of single molecules and to address fundamental problems in nonequilibrium thermodynamics of small systems [2]. Recent progress in statistical physics has shown the importance of considering large energy deviations in the beahvior of systems that are driven out-of-equilibrium by time-dependent forces. Prominent examples are nonequilibrium work relations (e.g. the Jarzynski equality [3]) and fluctuation theorems. By repeated measurement of the irreversible work the Jarzynski equality allows us to recover the free energy difference between two thermodynamic states, AF, by taking exponential averages of the work W done by the external agent on the system, e-βΔF =

Dosimetric challenges of small animal irradiation with a commercial X-ray unit.

PubMed

Kuess, Peter; Bozsaky, Eva; Hopfgartner, Johannes; Seifritz, Gerhard; Dörr, Wolfgang; Georg, Dietmar

2014-12-01

A commercial X-ray unit was recently installed at the Medical University Vienna for partial and whole body irradiation of small experimental animals. For 200 kV X-rays the dose deviations with respect to the reference dose measured in the geometrical center of the potential available field size was investigated for various experimental setup plates used for mouse irradiations. Furthermore, the HVL was measured in mm Al and mm Cu at 200 kV for two types of filtration. Three different setup constructions for small animal irradiation were dosimetrically characterized, covering field sizes from 9×20 mm2 to 210×200 mm2. Different types of detectors were investigated. Additionally LiF:MG,Ti TLD chips were used for mouse in-vivo dosimetry. The use of an additional 0.5 mm Cu filter reduced the deviation of the dose between each irradiation position on the setup plates. Multiple animals were irradiated at the same time using an individual setup plate for each experimental purpose. The dose deviations of each irradiation position to the center was measured to be ±4% or better. The depth dose curve measured in a solid water phantom was more pronounced for smaller field sizes. The comparison between estimated dose and measured dose in a PMMA phantom regarding the dose decline yielded in a difference of 3.9% at 20 mm depth. In-vivo measurements in a mouse snouts irradiation model confirmed the reference dosimetry, accomplished in PMMA phantoms, in terms of administered dose and deviation within different points of measurement. The outlined experiments dealt with a wide variety of dosimetric challenges during the installation of a new X-ray unit in the laboratory. The depth dose profiles measured for different field sizes were in good agreement with literature data. Different field sizes and spatial arrangement of the animals (depending on each purpose) provide additional challenges for the dosimetric measurements. Thorough dosimetric commissioning has to be performed before a new experimental setup is approved for biological experiments. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier GmbH.

Cryocooler based test setup for high current applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pradhan, Jedidiah; Das, Nisith Kr.; Roy, Anindya; Duttagupta, Anjan

2018-04-01

A cryo-cooler based cryogenic test setup has been designed, fabricated, and tested. The setup incorporates two numbers of cryo-coolers, one for sample cooling and the other one for cooling the large magnet coil. The performance and versatility of the setup has been tested using large samples of high-temperature superconductor magnet coil as well as short samples with high current. Several un-calibrated temperature sensors have been calibrated using this system. This paper presents the details of the system along with results of different performance tests.

Optimizing experimental procedures for quantitative evaluation of crop plant performance in high throughput phenotyping systems

PubMed Central

Junker, Astrid; Muraya, Moses M.; Weigelt-Fischer, Kathleen; Arana-Ceballos, Fernando; Klukas, Christian; Melchinger, Albrecht E.; Meyer, Rhonda C.; Riewe, David; Altmann, Thomas

2015-01-01

Detailed and standardized protocols for plant cultivation in environmentally controlled conditions are an essential prerequisite to conduct reproducible experiments with precisely defined treatments. Setting up appropriate and well defined experimental procedures is thus crucial for the generation of solid evidence and indispensable for successful plant research. Non-invasive and high throughput (HT) phenotyping technologies offer the opportunity to monitor and quantify performance dynamics of several hundreds of plants at a time. Compared to small scale plant cultivations, HT systems have much higher demands, from a conceptual and a logistic point of view, on experimental design, as well as the actual plant cultivation conditions, and the image analysis and statistical methods for data evaluation. Furthermore, cultivation conditions need to be designed that elicit plant performance characteristics corresponding to those under natural conditions. This manuscript describes critical steps in the optimization of procedures for HT plant phenotyping systems. Starting with the model plant Arabidopsis, HT-compatible methods were tested, and optimized with regard to growth substrate, soil coverage, watering regime, experimental design (considering environmental inhomogeneities) in automated plant cultivation and imaging systems. As revealed by metabolite profiling, plant movement did not affect the plants' physiological status. Based on these results, procedures for maize HT cultivation and monitoring were established. Variation of maize vegetative growth in the HT phenotyping system did match well with that observed in the field. The presented results outline important issues to be considered in the design of HT phenotyping experiments for model and crop plants. It thereby provides guidelines for the setup of HT experimental procedures, which are required for the generation of reliable and reproducible data of phenotypic variation for a broad range of applications. PMID:25653655

Results of a self-triggered prototype system for radio-detection of extensive air showers at the Pierre Auger Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abreu, P.; Acounis, S.; Aglietta, M.; Ahlers, M.; Ahn, E. J.; Albuquerque, I. F. M.; Allekotte, I.; Allen, J.; Allison, P.; Almela, A.; Alvarez Castillo, J.; Alvarez-Muñiz, J.; Alves Batista, R.; Ambrosio, M.; Aminaei, A.; Anchordoqui, L.; Andringa, S.; Anti&cbreve; i'c, T.; Aramo, C.; Arqueros, F.; Asorey, H.; Assis, P.; Aublin, J.; Ave, M.; Avenir, M.; Avila, G.; Badescu, A. M.; Barber, K. B.; Barbosa, A. F.; Bardenet, R.; Baughman, B.; Bäuml, J.; Baus, C.; Beatty, J. J.; Becker, K. H.; Bellétoile, A.; Bellido, J. A.; BenZvi, S.; Berat, C.; Bertou, X.; Biermann, P. L.; Billoir, P.; Blaess, S. G.; Blanco, F.; Blanco, M.; Bleve, C.; Blümer, H.; Boháčová, M.; Boncioli, D.; Bonifazi, C.; Bonino, R.; Borodai, N.; Brack, J.; Brancus, I.; Brogueira, P.; Brown, W. C.; Buchholz, P.; Bueno, A.; Buroker, L.; Burton, R. E.; Buscemi, M.; Caballero-Mora, K. S.; Caccianiga, B.; Caramete, L.; Caruso, R.; Castellina, A.; Cataldi, G.; Cazon, L.; Cester, R.; Charrier, D.; Chauvin, J.; Cheng, S. H.; Chiavassa, A.; Chinellato, J. A.; Chirinos Diaz, J.; Chudoba, J.; Cilmo, M.; Clay, R. W.; Cocciolo, G.; Colalillo, R.; Collica, L.; Coluccia, M. R.; Conceição, R.; Contreras, F.; Cook, H.; Cooper, M. J.; Coppens, J.; Coutu, S.; Covault, C. E.; Criss, A.; Cronin, J.; Curutiu, J.; Dallier, R.; Daniel, B.; Dasso, S.; Daumiller, K.; Dawson, B. R.; de Almeida, R. M.; De Domenico, M.; De Donato, C.; de Jong, S. J.; De La Vega, G.; de Mello Junior, W. J. M.; de Mello Neto, J. R. T.; De Mitri, I.; de Souza, V.; de Vries, K. D.; del Peral, L.; Deligny, O.; Dembinski, H.; Dhital, N.; Di Giulio, C.; Díaz Castro, M. L.; Diep, P. N.; Diogo, F.; Dobrigkeit, C.; Docters, W.; D'Olivo, J. C.; Dong, P. N.; Dorofeev, A.; dos Anjos, J. C.; Dova, M. T.; D'Urso, D.; Ebr, J.; Engel, R.; Erdmann, M.; Escobar, C. O.; Espadanal, J.; Etchegoyen, A.; Facal San Luis, P.; Falcke, H.; Fang, K.; Farrar, G.; Fauth, A. C.; Fazzini, N.; Ferguson, A. P.; Fick, B.; Figueira, J. M.; Filevich, A.; Filipčič, A.; Fliescher, S.; Fox, B.; Fracchiolla, C. E.; Fraenkel, E. D.; Fratu, O.; Fröhlich, U.; Fuchs, B.; Gaior, R.; Gamarra, R. F.; Gambetta, S.; García, B.; Garcia Roca, S. T.; Garcia-Gamez, D.; Garcia-Pinto, D.; Garçon, T.; Garilli, G.; Gascon Bravo, A.; Gemmeke, H.; Ghia, P. L.; Giller, M.; Gitto, J.; Glass, H.; Gold, M. S.; Golup, G.; Gomez Albarracin, F.; Gómez Berisso, M.; Gómez Vitale, P. F.; Gonçalves, P.; Gonzalez, J. G.; Gookin, B.; Gorgi, A.; Gorham, P.; Gouffon, P.; Grashorn, E.; Grebe, S.; Griffith, N.; Grillo, A. F.; Guardincerri, Y.; Guarino, F.; Guedes, G. P.; Hansen, P.; Harari, D.; Harrison, T. A.; Harton, J. L.; Haungs, A.; Hebbeker, T.; Heck, D.; Herve, A. E.; Hill, G. C.; Hojvat, C.; Hollon, N.; Holmes, V. C.; Homola, P.; Hörandel, J. R.; Horvath, P.; Hrabovský, M.; Huber, D.; Huege, T.; Insolia, A.; Ionita, F.; Jansen, S.; Jarne, C.; Jiraskova, S.; Josebachuili, M.; Kadija, K.; Kampert, K. H.; Karhan, P.; Kasper, P.; Katkov, I.; Kégl, B.; Keilhauer, B.; Keivani, A.; Kelley, J. L.; Kemp, E.; Kieckhafer, R. M.; Klages, H. O.; Kleifges, M.; Kleinfeller, J.; Knapp, J.; Koang, D.-H.; Kotera, K.; Krohm, N.; Krömer, O.; Kruppke-Hansen, D.; Kuempel, D.; Kulbartz, J. K.; Kunka, N.; La Rosa, G.; LaHurd, D.; Latronico, L.; Lauer, R.; Lauscher, M.; Lautridou, P.; Le Coz, S.; Leão, M. S. A. B.; Lebrun, D.; Lebrun, P.; Leigui de Oliveira, M. A.; Letessier-Selvon, A.; Lhenry-Yvon, I.; Link, K.; López, R.; Lopez Agüera, A.; Louedec, K.; Lozano Bahilo, J.; Lu, L.; Lucero, A.; Ludwig, M.; Lyberis, H.; Maccarone, M. C.; Macolino, C.; Malacari, M.; Maldera, S.; Maller, J.; Mandat, D.; Mantsch, P.; Mariazzi, A. G.; Marin, J.; Marin, V.; Maris, I. C.; Marquez Falcon, H. R.; Marsella, G.; Martello, D.; Martin, L.; Martinez, H.; Martínez Bravo, O.; Martraire, D.; Masías Meza, J. J.; Mathes, H. J.; Matthews, J.; Matthews, J. A. J.; Matthiae, G.; Maurel, D.; Maurizio, D.; Mayotte, E.; Mazur, P. O.; Medina-Tanco, G.; Melissas, M.; Melo, D.; Menichetti, E.; Menshikov, A.; Mertsch, P.; Messina, S.; Meurer, C.; Meyhandan, R.; Mi'canovi'c, S.; Micheletti, M. I.; Minaya, I. A.; Miramonti, L.; Mitrica, B.; Molina-Bueno, L.; Mollerach, S.; Monasor, M.; Monnier Ragaigne, D.; Montanet, F.; Morales, B.; Morello, C.; Moreno, J. C.; Mostafá, M.; Moura, C. A.; Muller, M. A.; Müller, G.; Münchmeyer, M.; Mussa, R.; Navarra, G.; Navarro, J. L.; Navas, S.; Necesal, P.; Nellen, L.; Nelles, A.; Neuser, J.; Nhung, P. T.; Niechciol, M.; Niemietz, L.; Nierstenhoefer, N.; Niggemann, T.; Nitz, D.; Nosek, D.; Nožka, L.; Oehlschläger, J.; Olinto, A.; Oliveira, M.; Ortiz, M.; Pacheco, N.; Pakk Selmi-Dei, D.; Palatka, M.; Pallotta, J.; Palmieri, N.; Parente, G.; Parra, A.; Pastor, S.; Paul, T.; Pech, M.; Pȩkala, J.; Pelayo, R.; Pepe, I. M.; Perrone, L.; Pesce, R.; Petermann, E.; Petrera, S.; Petrolini, A.; Petrov, Y.; Pfendner, C.; Piegaia, R.; Pierog, T.; Pieroni, P.; Pimenta, M.; Pirronello, V.; Platino, M.; Plum, M.; Ponce, V. H.; Pontz, M.; Porcelli, A.; Privitera, P.; Prouza, M.; Quel, E. J.; Querchfeld, S.; Rautenberg, J.; Ravel, O.; Ravignani, D.; Revenu, B.; Ridky, J.; Riggi, S.; Risse, M.; Ristori, P.; Rivera, H.; Rivière, C.; Rizi, V.; Roberts, J.; Rodrigues de Carvalho, W.; Rodriguez Cabo, I.; Rodriguez Fernandez, G.; Rodriguez Martino, J.; Rodriguez Rojo, J.; Rodríguez-Frías, M. D.; Ros, G.; Rosado, J.; Rossler, T.; Roth, M.; Rouillé-d'Orfeuil, B.; Roulet, E.; Rovero, A. C.; Rühle, C.; Saffi, S. J.; Saftoiu, A.; Salamida, F.; Salazar, H.; Salesa Greus, F.; Salina, G.; Sánchez, F.; Santo, C. E.; Santos, E.; Santos, E. M.; Sarazin, F.; Sarkar, B.; Sarkar, S.; Sato, R.; Scharf, N.; Scherini, V.; Schieler, H.; Schiffer, P.; Schmidt, A.; Scholten, O.; Schoorlemmer, H.; Schovancova, J.; Schovánek, P.; Schröder, F.; Schulz, J.; Schuster, D.; Sciutto, S. J.; Scuderi, M.; Segreto, A.; Settimo, M.; Shadkam, A.; Shellard, R. C.; Sidelnik, I.; Sigl, G.; Silva Lopez, H. H.; Sima, O.; Śmiałkowski, A.; Šmída, R.; Snow, G. R.; Sommers, P.; Sorokin, J.; Spinka, H.; Squartini, R.; Srivastava, Y. N.; Stanic, S.; Stapleton, J.; Stasielak, J.; Stassi, P.; Stephan, M.; Straub, M.; Stutz, A.; Suarez, F.; Suomijärvi, T.; Supanitsky, A. D.; Šuša, T.; Sutherland, M. S.; Swain, J.; Szadkowski, Z.; Szuba, M.; Tapia, A.; Tartare, M.; Taşcău, O.; Tcaciuc, R.; Thao, N. T.; Thomas, D.; Tiffenberg, J.; Timmermans, C.; Tkaczyj, W.; Todero Peixoto, C. J.; Toma, G.; Tomankova, L.; Tomé, B.; Tonachini, A.; Torralba Elipe, G.; Torres Machado, D.; Travnicek, P.; Tridapalli, D. B.; Trovato, E.; Tueros, M.; Ulrich, R.; Unger, M.; Urban, M.; Valdés Galicia, J. F.; Valiño, I.; Valore, L.; van Aar, G.; van den Berg, A. M.; van Velzen, S.; van Vliet, A.; Varela, E.; Vargas Cárdenas, B.; Varner, G.; Vázquez, J. R.; Vázquez, R. A.; Veberič, D.; Verzi, V.; Vicha, J.; Videla, M.; Villaseñor, L.; Wahlberg, H.; Wahrlich, P.; Wainberg, O.; Walz, D.; Watson, A. A.; Weber, M.; Weidenhaupt, K.; Weindl, A.; Werner, F.; Westerhoff, S.; Whelan, B. J.; Widom, A.; Wieczorek, G.; Wiencke, L.; Wilczyńska, B.; Wilczyński, H.; Will, M.; Williams, C.; Winchen, T.; Wommer, M.; Wundheiler, B.; Yamamoto, T.; Yapici, T.; Younk, P.; Yuan, G.; Yushkov, A.; Zamorano Garcia, B.; Zas, E.; Zavrtanik, D.; Zavrtanik, M.; Zaw, I.; Zepeda, A.; Zhou, J.; Zhu, Y.; Zimbres Silva, M.; Ziolkowski, M.

2012-11-01

We describe the experimental setup and the results of RAuger, a small radio-antenna array, consisting of three fully autonomous and self-triggered radio-detection stations, installed close to the center of the Surface Detector (SD) of the Pierre Auger Observatory in Argentina. The setup has been designed for the detection of the electric field strength of air showers initiated by ultra-high energy cosmic rays, without using an auxiliary trigger from another detection system. Installed in December 2006, RAuger was terminated in May 2010 after 65 registered coincidences with the SD. The sky map in local angular coordinates (i.e., zenith and azimuth angles) of these events reveals a strong azimuthal asymmetry which is in agreement with a mechanism dominated by a geomagnetic emission process. The correlation between the electric field and the energy of the primary cosmic ray is presented for the first time, in an energy range covering two orders of magnitude between 0.1 EeV and 10 EeV. It is demonstrated that this setup is relatively more sensitive to inclined showers, with respect to the SD. In addition to these results, which underline the potential of the radio-detection technique, important information about the general behavior of self-triggering radio-detection systems has been obtained. In particular, we will discuss radio self-triggering under varying local electric-field conditions.

A multi-layered active target for the study of neutron-unbound nuclides at NSCL

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Freeman, Jessica; Gueye, Paul; Redpath, Thomas; MoNA Collaboration

2017-01-01

The characteristics of neutron-unbound nuclides were investigated using a multi-layered Si/Be active target designed for use with the MoNA/LISA setup at the National Superconducting Cyclotron (NSCL). The setup consists of the MoNA/LISA arrays (for neutron detection) and a superconducting sweeper magnet (for charged separation) to identify products following the decay of neutron unbound states. The segmented target consisted of three 700 mg/cm2 beryllium targets and four 0.14 mm thick 62x62 mm2 silicon detectors. As a commissioning experiment for the target the decay of two-neutron unbound 26O populated in a one-proton removal reaction from a radioactive 27F beam was performed. The 27F secondary radioactive beam from the NSCL's Coupled Cyclotron Facility was produced from the fragmentation of a 140 MeV/u 48Ca beam incident on a thick beryllium target and then cleanly selected by the A1900 fragment separator. The energy loss and position spectra of the incoming beam and reaction products were used to calibrate the Silicon detectors to within 1.5% in both energy and position. A dedicated Geant4 model of the target was developed to simulate the energy loss within the target. A description of the experimental setup, simulation work, and energy and position calibration will be presented. DoE/NNSA - DE-NA0000979.

Interactive evolution concept for analyzing a rock salt cavern under cyclic thermo-mechanical loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

König, Diethard; Mahmoudi, Elham; Khaledi, Kavan; von Blumenthal, Achim; Schanz, Tom

2016-04-01

The excess electricity produced by renewable energy sources available during off-peak periods of consumption can be used e.g. to produce and compress hydrogen or to compress air. Afterwards the pressurized gas is stored in the rock salt cavities. During this process, thermo-mechanical cyclic loading is applied to the rock salt surrounding the cavern. Compared to the operation of conventional storage caverns in rock salt the frequencies of filling and discharging cycles and therefore the thermo-mechanical loading cycles are much higher, e.g. daily or weekly compared to seasonally or yearly. The stress strain behavior of rock salt as well as the deformation behavior and the stability of caverns in rock salt under such loading conditions are unknown. To overcome this, existing experimental studies have to be supplemented by exploring the behavior of rock salt under combined thermo-mechanical cyclic loading. Existing constitutive relations have to be extended to cover degradation of rock salt under thermo-mechanical cyclic loading. At least the complex system of a cavern in rock salt under these loading conditions has to be analyzed by numerical modeling taking into account the uncertainties due to limited access in large depth to investigate material composition and properties. An interactive evolution concept is presented to link the different components of such a study - experimental modeling, constitutive modeling and numerical modeling. A triaxial experimental setup is designed to characterize the cyclic thermo-mechanical behavior of rock salt. The imposed boundary conditions in the experimental setup are assumed to be similar to the stress state obtained from a full-scale numerical simulation. The computational model relies primarily on the governing constitutive model for predicting the behavior of rock salt cavity. Hence, a sophisticated elasto-viscoplastic creep constitutive model is developed to take into account the dilatancy and damage progress, as well as the temperature effects. The contributed input parameters in the constitutive model are calibrated using the experimental measurements. In the following, the initial numerical simulation is modified based on the introduced constitutive model implemented in a finite element code. However, because of the significant levels of uncertainties involved in the design procedure of such structures, a reliable design can be achieved by employing probabilistic approaches. Therefore, the numerical calculation is extended by statistical tools such as sensitivity analysis, probabilistic analysis and robust reliability-based design. Uncertainties e.g. due to limited site investigation, which is always fragmentary within these depths, can be compensated by using data sets of field measurements for back calculation of input parameters with the developed numerical model. Monitoring concepts can be optimized by identifying sensor localizations e.g. using sensitivity analyses.

Laboratory Measurements of Single-Particle Polarimetric Spectrum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gritsevich, M.; Penttila, A.; Maconi, G.; Kassamakov, I.; Helander, P.; Puranen, T.; Salmi, A.; Hæggström, E.; Muinonen, K.

2017-12-01

Measuring scattering properties of different targets is important for material characterization, remote sensing applications, and for verifying theoretical results. Furthermore, there are usually simplifications made when we model targets and compute the scattering properties, e.g., ideal shape or constant optical parameters throughout the target material. Experimental studies help in understanding the link between the observed properties and computed results. Experimentally derived Mueller matrices of studied particles can be used as input for larger-scale scattering simulations, e.g., radiative transfer computations. This method allows to bypass the problem of using an idealized model for single-particle optical properties. While existing approaches offer ensemble- and orientation-averaged particle properties, our aim is to measure individual particles with controlled or known orientation. With the newly developed scatterometer, we aim to offer novel possibility to measure single, small (down to μm-scale) targets and their polarimetric spectra. This work presents an experimental setup that measures light scattered by a fixed small particle with dimensions ranging between micrometer and millimeter sizes. The goal of our setup is nondestructive characterization of such particles by measuring light of multiple wavelengths scattered in 360° in a horizontal plane by an ultrasonically levitating sample, whilst simultaneously controlling its 3D position and orientation. We describe the principles and design of our instrument and its calibration. We also present example measurements of real samples. This study was conducted under the support from the European Research Council, in the frame of the Advanced Grant project No. 320773 `Scattering and Absorption of Electromagnetic Waves in Particulate Media' (SAEMPL).

A Statistical Guide to the Design of Deep Mutational Scanning Experiments.

PubMed

Matuszewski, Sebastian; Hildebrandt, Marcel E; Ghenu, Ana-Hermina; Jensen, Jeffrey D; Bank, Claudia

2016-09-01

The characterization of the distribution of mutational effects is a key goal in evolutionary biology. Recently developed deep-sequencing approaches allow for accurate and simultaneous estimation of the fitness effects of hundreds of engineered mutations by monitoring their relative abundance across time points in a single bulk competition. Naturally, the achievable resolution of the estimated fitness effects depends on the specific experimental setup, the organism and type of mutations studied, and the sequencing technology utilized, among other factors. By means of analytical approximations and simulations, we provide guidelines for optimizing time-sampled deep-sequencing bulk competition experiments, focusing on the number of mutants, the sequencing depth, and the number of sampled time points. Our analytical results show that sampling more time points together with extending the duration of the experiment improves the achievable precision disproportionately compared with increasing the sequencing depth or reducing the number of competing mutants. Even if the duration of the experiment is fixed, sampling more time points and clustering these at the beginning and the end of the experiment increase experimental power and allow for efficient and precise assessment of the entire range of selection coefficients. Finally, we provide a formula for calculating the 95%-confidence interval for the measurement error estimate, which we implement as an interactive web tool. This allows for quantification of the maximum expected a priori precision of the experimental setup, as well as for a statistical threshold for determining deviations from neutrality for specific selection coefficient estimates. Copyright © 2016 by the Genetics Society of America.

Comparison of flow and gas washout characteristics between pressure control and high-frequency percussive ventilation using a test lung

PubMed Central

Dutta, Rabijit; Xing, Tao; Swanson, Craig; Heltborg, Jeff; Murdoch, Gordon K

2018-01-01

Objective A comparison between flow and gas washout data for high-frequency percussive ventilation (HFPV) and pressure control ventilation (PCV) under similar conditions is currently not available. This bench study aims to compare and describe the flow and gas washout behavior of HFPV and PCV in a newly designed experimental setup and establish a framework for future clinical and animal studies. Approach We studied gas washout behavior using a newly designed experimental setup that is motivated by the multi-breath nitrogen washout measurements. In this procedure, a test lung was filled with nitrogen gas before it was connected to a ventilator. Pressure, volume, and oxygen concentrations were recorded under different compliance and resistance conditions. PCV was compared with two settings of HFPV, namely, HFPV-High and HFPV-Low, to simulate the different variations in its clinical application. In the HFPV-Low mode, the peak pressures and drive pressures of HFPV and PCV are matched, whereas in the HFPV-High mode, the mean airway pressures (MAP) are matched. Main results HFPV-Low mode delivers smaller tidal volume (VT) as compared to PCV under all lung conditions, whereas HFPV-High delivers a larger VT. HFPV-High provides rapid washout as compared to PCV under all lung conditions. HFPV-Low takes a longer time to wash out nitrogen except at a low compliance, where it expedites washout at a smaller VT and MAP compared to PCV washout. Significance Various flow parameters for HFPV and PCV are mathematically defined. A shorter washout time at a small VT in low compliant test lungs for HFPV could be regarded as a hypothesis for lung protective ventilation for animal or human lungs. PMID:29369819

Comparison of flow and gas washout characteristics between pressure control and high-frequency percussive ventilation using a test lung.

PubMed

Dutta, Rabijit; Xing, Tao; Swanson, Craig; Heltborg, Jeff; Murdoch, Gordon K

2018-03-15

A comparison between flow and gas washout data for high-frequency percussive ventilation (HFPV) and pressure control ventilation (PCV) under similar conditions is currently not available. This bench study aims to compare and describe the flow and gas washout behavior of HFPV and PCV in a newly designed experimental setup and establish a framework for future clinical and animal studies. We studied gas washout behavior using a newly designed experimental setup that is motivated by the multi-breath nitrogen washout measurements. In this procedure, a test lung was filled with nitrogen gas before it was connected to a ventilator. Pressure, volume, and oxygen concentrations were recorded under different compliance and resistance conditions. PCV was compared with two settings of HFPV, namely, HFPV-High and HFPV-Low, to simulate the different variations in its clinical application. In the HFPV-Low mode, the peak pressures and drive pressures of HFPV and PCV are matched, whereas in the HFPV-High mode, the mean airway pressures (MAP) are matched. HFPV-Low mode delivers smaller tidal volume (V T ) as compared to PCV under all lung conditions, whereas HFPV-High delivers a larger V T . HFPV-High provides rapid washout as compared to PCV under all lung conditions. HFPV-Low takes a longer time to wash out nitrogen except at a low compliance, where it expedites washout at a smaller V T and MAP compared to PCV washout. Various flow parameters for HFPV and PCV are mathematically defined. A shorter washout time at a small V T in low compliant test lungs for HFPV could be regarded as a hypothesis for lung protective ventilation for animal or human lungs.

Identifying Genotype-by-Environment Interactions in the Metabolism of Germinating Arabidopsis Seeds Using Generalized Genetical Genomics 1[C][W][OA

PubMed Central

Joosen, Ronny Viktor Louis; Arends, Danny; Li, Yang; Willems, Leo A.J.; Keurentjes, Joost J.B.; Ligterink, Wilco; Jansen, Ritsert C.; Hilhorst, Henk W.M.

2013-01-01

A complex phenotype such as seed germination is the result of several genetic and environmental cues and requires the concerted action of many genes. The use of well-structured recombinant inbred lines in combination with “omics” analysis can help to disentangle the genetic basis of such quantitative traits. This so-called genetical genomics approach can effectively capture both genetic and epistatic interactions. However, to understand how the environment interacts with genomic-encoded information, a better understanding of the perception and processing of environmental signals is needed. In a classical genetical genomics setup, this requires replication of the whole experiment in different environmental conditions. A novel generalized setup overcomes this limitation and includes environmental perturbation within a single experimental design. We developed a dedicated quantitative trait loci mapping procedure to implement this approach and used existing phenotypical data to demonstrate its power. In addition, we studied the genetic regulation of primary metabolism in dry and imbibed Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) seeds. In the metabolome, many changes were observed that were under both environmental and genetic controls and their interaction. This concept offers unique reduction of experimental load with minimal compromise of statistical power and is of great potential in the field of systems genetics, which requires a broad understanding of both plasticity and dynamic regulation. PMID:23606598

A simultaneous multimodal imaging system for tissue functional parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ren, Wenqi; Zhang, Zhiwu; Wu, Qiang; Zhang, Shiwu; Xu, Ronald

2014-02-01

Simultaneous and quantitative assessment of skin functional characteristics in different modalities will facilitate diagnosis and therapy in many clinical applications such as wound healing. However, many existing clinical practices and multimodal imaging systems are subjective, qualitative, sequential for multimodal data collection, and need co-registration between different modalities. To overcome these limitations, we developed a multimodal imaging system for quantitative, non-invasive, and simultaneous imaging of cutaneous tissue oxygenation and blood perfusion parameters. The imaging system integrated multispectral and laser speckle imaging technologies into one experimental setup. A Labview interface was developed for equipment control, synchronization, and image acquisition. Advanced algorithms based on a wide gap second derivative reflectometry and laser speckle contrast analysis (LASCA) were developed for accurate reconstruction of tissue oxygenation and blood perfusion respectively. Quantitative calibration experiments and a new style of skinsimulating phantom were designed to verify the accuracy and reliability of the imaging system. The experimental results were compared with a Moor tissue oxygenation and perfusion monitor. For In vivo testing, a post-occlusion reactive hyperemia (PORH) procedure in human subject and an ongoing wound healing monitoring experiment using dorsal skinfold chamber models were conducted to validate the usability of our system for dynamic detection of oxygenation and perfusion parameters. In this study, we have not only setup an advanced multimodal imaging system for cutaneous tissue oxygenation and perfusion parameters but also elucidated its potential for wound healing assessment in clinical practice.

Rainfall estimation using microwave links. Results from an experimental setup in Luxembourg

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fenicia, Fabrizio; Matgen, Patrick; Pfister, Laurent

2010-05-01

Microwave links represent a valid alternative to traditional rainfall estimation methods. They are commonly used in mobile phone communication, and they constitute built-in widely distributed networks. Due to their ability of providing high temporal and spatial resolution measurements, their use is particularly suitable in urban settings. We here show results from an experimental setup in Luxembourg City, where two dual frequency links have been installed. The links cover a distance of about 4km, and measure power attenuation at 1 min. timestep. The links have been equipped with several recording raingauges, which measure rainfall in real-time communicating through a wireless connection. This set-up has been used to analyze in detail the mapping between attenuation and rainfall intensity, and gain insights into the potential accuracy of these instruments. In addition, we investigated the relation between rainfall and discharge response of the urban area of Luxembourg, which shows the potential utility of high frequency rainfall measurements for urban environments.

A new mechatronic set-up and technique for investigation of firearms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lesenciuc, Ioan; Suciu, Cornel

2016-12-01

Since ancient times, mankind has manifested interest in the development and improvement of weapons, either for military or hunting purposes. Today, in competition with these legal practices, the number of those who commit crimes by non-compliance with the regime of weapons and ammunition has increased exponentially. This is why the technology and methods employed in the area of judicial ballistics, requires constant research and continuous learning. The present paper advances a new experimental set-up and its corresponding methodology, meant to measure the force deployed by the firing pin. The new experimental set-up and procedure consists of a mechatronic structure, based on a piezoelectric force transducer, which allows to measure, in-situ, the force produced by the firing pin when it is deployed. The obtained information can further be used to establish a correspondence between this force and the imprint left on the firing cap. This correspondence furthers the possibility of elaborating a model that would permit ballistic experts to correctly identify a smoothbore weapon.

Electroanalysis of microbial anodes for bioelectrochemical systems: basics, progress and perspectives.

PubMed

Rimboud, M; Pocaznoi, D; Erable, B; Bergel, A

2014-08-21

Over about the last ten years, microbial anodes have been the subject of a huge number of fundamental studies dealing with an increasing variety of possible application domains. Out of several thousands of studies, only a minority have used 3-electrode set-ups to ensure well-controlled electroanalysis conditions. The present article reviews these electroanalytical studies with the admitted objective of promoting this type of investigation. A first recall of basics emphasises the advantages of the 3-electrode set-up compared to microbial fuel cell devices if analytical objectives are pursued. Experimental precautions specifically relating to microbial anodes are then noted and the existing experimental set-ups and procedures are reviewed. The state-of-the-art is described through three aspects: the effect of the polarisation potential on the characteristics of microbial anodes, the electroanalytical techniques, and the electrode. We hope that the final outlook will encourage researchers working with microbial anodes to strengthen their engagement along the multiple exciting paths of electroanalysis.

WE-H-BRA-06: Experimental Investigation of RBE for Lung Cancer Cell Lines as a Function of Dose and LET in Proton, Helium and Carbon Beams

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Patel, D; Titt, U; Bronk, L

2016-06-15

Purpose: Investigate and quantify the effect of dose and LET on the RBE of protons, helium and carbon ions. Methods: High throughput, high accuracy experimental setups were custom designed to investigate the Relative Biological Effectiveness (RBE) dependence on the dose and Linear Energy Transfer (LET) values for proton, helium and carbon ion beams. The experiment was conducted at the HIT facility in collaboration with the DKFZ in Heidelberg/Germany. Clonogenic assays of two human lung cancer cell lines, H460 and H1437, were investigated in this study. γH2AX foci staining on the H460 cell line was also undertaken to facilitate the studymore » of differential DNA double-strand break induction and repair between low-design available at the HIT facility. Specific points along the Bragg curve corresponding to well-defined doses and LET values were chosen by appropriate selection of the pre-absorber thicknesses. With a setup design for horizontal beam lines we were able to minimize ion scattering in the cell plate, resulting in narrower energy spectra and hence LET distributions in the Bragg peak and in the distal falloff regions, compared to the earlier experiments. Results: Approximately 16,000 samples of cancer cells were irradiated during 23 hours of beam time. The preliminary results of the survival curves for both cell lines show a distinct dependence on LET for a given dose with decreased survival fractions at increasing LET values, encountered at the Bragg peak and in the distal falloff. Conclusion: Our preliminary findings are indicative of the importance of novel variable-RBE models for proton therapy and provide insight into the RBE of heavy ions for possible future heavy ion therapy facilities in the US. Funding support: SINF 2015/16.« less

Bio-inspired piezoelectric linear motor driven by a single-phase harmonic wave with an asymmetric stator.

PubMed

Pan, Qiaosheng; Miao, Enming; Wu, Bingxuan; Chen, Weikang; Lei, Xiujun; He, Liangguo

2017-07-01

A novel, bio-inspired, single-phase driven piezoelectric linear motor (PLM) using an asymmetric stator was designed, fabricated, and tested to avoid mode degeneracy and to simplify the drive mechanism of a piezoelectric motor. A piezoelectric transducer composed of two piezoelectric stacks and a displacement amplifier was used as the driving element of the PLM. Two simple and specially designed claws performed elliptical motion. A numerical simulation was performed to design the stator and determine the feasibility of the design mechanism of the PLM. Moreover, an experimental setup was built to validate the working principles, as well as to evaluate the performance, of the PLM. The prototype motor outputs a no-load speed of 233.7 mm/s at a voltage of 180 V p-p and a maximum thrust force of 2.3 N under a preload of 10 N. This study verified the feasibility of the proposed design and provided a method to simplify the driving harmonic signal and structure of PLMs.

Fast high-energy X-ray imaging for Severe Accidents experiments on the future PLINIUS-2 platform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berge, L.; Estre, N.; Tisseur, D.; Payan, E.; Eck, D.; Bouyer, V.; Cassiaut-Louis, N.; Journeau, C.; Tellier, R. Le; Pluyette, E.

2018-01-01

The future PLINIUS-2 platform of CEA Cadarache will be dedicated to the study of corium interactions in severe nuclear accidents, and will host innovative large-scale experiments. The Nuclear Measurement Laboratory of CEA Cadarache is in charge of real-time high-energy X-ray imaging set-ups, for the study of the corium-water and corium-sodium interaction, and of the corium stratification process. Imaging such large and high-density objects requires a 15 MeV linear electron accelerator coupled to a tungsten target creating a high-energy Bremsstrahlung X-ray flux, with corresponding dose rate about 100 Gy/min at 1 m. The signal is detected by phosphor screens coupled to high-framerate scientific CMOS cameras. The imaging set-up is established using an experimentally-validated home-made simulation software (MODHERATO). The code computes quantitative radiographic signals from the description of the source, object geometry and composition, detector, and geometrical configuration (magnification factor, etc.). It accounts for several noise sources (photonic and electronic noises, swank and readout noise), and for image blur due to the source spot-size and to the detector unsharpness. In a view to PLINIUS-2, the simulation has been improved to account for the scattered flux, which is expected to be significant. The paper presents the scattered flux calculation using the MCNP transport code, and its integration into the MODHERATO simulation. Then the validation of the improved simulation is presented, through confrontation to real measurement images taken on a small-scale equivalent set-up on the PLINIUS platform. Excellent agreement is achieved. This improved simulation is therefore being used to design the PLINIUS-2 imaging set-ups (source, detectors, cameras, etc.).

The νGeN experiment at the Kalinin Nuclear Power Plant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belov, V.; Brudanin, V.; Egorov, V.; Filosofov, D.; Fomina, M.; Gurov, Yu.; Korotkova, L.; Lubashevskiy, A.; Medvedev, D.; Pritula, R.; Rozova, I.; Rozov, S.; Sandukovsky, V.; Timkin, V.; Yakushev, E.; Yurkowski, J.; Zhitnikov, I.

2015-12-01

The ν GeN is new experiment at the Kalinin Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP) for detection of coherent Neutrino-Ge Nucleus elastic scattering. Recent neutrino and Dark Matter search experiments have revolutionized the detection of rear events, and rear events with low energies, in particular. Experiments have achieved sensitivities on the level of several events per hundred kg of detector material per day with energy thresholds from few hundred eV. This opens up a new unique possibility for experimental detection of neutrino-nucleus coherent scattering that has been considered to be impossible so far. The νGeN project uses low threshold high-purity Ge-detectors (HPGe) developed by JINR (Dubna, Russia) in collaboration with BSI (Baltic Scientific Instruments, Riga, Latvia) for creation of a setup designated for first observation of neutrino coherent scattering on Ge. As a powerful neutrino source the experiment will use electron antineutrinos from one of the power-generating units (reactor unit #3) of the KNPP. The coherent neutrino scattering will be observed using a differential method that compares 1) the spectra measured at the reactor operation and shut-down periods; 2) the spectra measured at different distances from the reactor core during the reactor operation. For a setup placed at a 10 m distance from the center of reactor core and with an energy threshold of 350 eV up to tens of events corresponding to neutrino coherent scattering on Ge are expected to be detected per day in the constructed setup with four HPGe low-energy-threshold detectors (~ 400 grams each). The setup sensitivity will be even more increased by using new detectors with total mass up to 5 kg.

Detection of fractional solitons in quantum spin Hall systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fleckenstein, C.; Traverso Ziani, N.; Trauzettel, B.

2018-03-01

We propose two experimental setups that allow for the implementation and the detection of fractional solitons of the Goldstone-Wilczek type. The first setup is based on two magnetic barriers at the edge of a quantum spin Hall system for generating the fractional soliton. If then a quantum point contact is created with the other edge, the linear conductance shows evidence of the fractional soliton. The second setup consists of a single magnetic barrier covering both edges and implementing a long quantum point contact. In this case, the fractional soliton can unambiguously be detected as a dip in the conductance without the need to control the magnetization of the barrier.

A programmable closed-loop recording and stimulating wireless system for behaving small laboratory animals

PubMed Central

Angotzi, Gian Nicola; Boi, Fabio; Zordan, Stefano; Bonfanti, Andrea; Vato, Alessandro

2014-01-01

A portable 16-channels microcontroller-based wireless system for a bi-directional interaction with the central nervous system is presented in this work. The device is designed to be used with freely behaving small laboratory animals and allows recording of spontaneous and evoked neural activity wirelessly transmitted and stored on a personal computer. Biphasic current stimuli with programmable duration, frequency and amplitude may be triggered in real-time on the basis of the recorded neural activity as well as by the animal behavior within a specifically designed experimental setup. An intuitive graphical user interface was developed to configure and to monitor the whole system. The system was successfully tested through bench tests and in vivo measurements on behaving rats chronically implanted with multi-channels microwire arrays. PMID:25096831

Snow as building material for construction of technological along-the-route roads of main pipelines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merdanov, S. M.; Egorov, A. L.; Kostyrchenko, V. A.; Madyarov, T. M.

2018-05-01

The article deals with the process of compacting snow in a closed volume with the use of vacuum processing for the construction of technological along-the-route roads of main pipelines. The relevance of the chosen study is substantiated; methods and designs for snow compaction are considered. The publication activity and defenses of doctoral and candidate dissertations on the research subject are analyzed. Patent analysis of existing methods and equipment for snow compaction with indication of their disadvantages is carried out. A design calculation was carried out using computer programs in which a strength calculation was performed to identify the most stressed places in the construction of a vibrating hydraulic tyre-type roller. A 3D model of the experimental setup was developed.

Wide-aperture aspherical lens for high-resolution terahertz imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chernomyrdin, Nikita V.; Frolov, Maxim E.; Lebedev, Sergey P.; Reshetov, Igor V.; Spektor, Igor E.; Tolstoguzov, Viktor L.; Karasik, Valeriy E.; Khorokhorov, Alexei M.; Koshelev, Kirill I.; Schadko, Aleksander O.; Yurchenko, Stanislav O.; Zaytsev, Kirill I.

2017-01-01

In this paper, we introduce wide-aperture aspherical lens for high-resolution terahertz (THz) imaging. The lens has been designed and analyzed by numerical methods of geometrical optics and electrodynamics. It has been made of high-density polyethylene by shaping at computer-controlled lathe and characterized using a continuous-wave THz imaging setup based on a backward-wave oscillator and Golay detector. The concept of image contrast has been implemented to estimate image quality. According to the experimental data, the lens allows resolving two points spaced at 0.95λ distance with a contrast of 15%. To highlight high resolution in the THz images, the wide-aperture lens has been employed for studying printed electronic circuit board containing sub-wavelength-scale elements. The observed results justify the high efficiency of the proposed lens design.

Laser absorption phenomena in flowing gas devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapman, P. K.; Otis, J. H.

1976-01-01

A theoretical and experimental investigation is presented of inverse Bremsstrahlung absorption of CW CO2 laser radiation in flowing gases seeded with alkali metals. In order to motivate this development, some simple models are described of several space missions which could use laser powered rocket vehicles. Design considerations are given for a test call to be used with a welding laser, using a diamond window for admission of laser radiation at power levels in excess of 10 kW. A detailed analysis of absorption conditions in the test cell is included. The experimental apparatus and test setup are described and the results of experiments presented. Injection of alkali seedant and steady state absorption of the laser radiation were successfully demonstrated, but problems with the durability of the diamond windows at higher powers prevented operation of the test cell as an effective laser powered thruster.

Student experimenter stands near middeck lockers in JSC Bldg 9A mockup

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1991-01-01

Student experimenter Constantine Costes, STS-42 Commander Ronald J. Grabe, STS-42 Mission Specialist (MS) William F. Readdy, and Integration Engineer Neal Christie discuss Coates' student experiment 83-02 (SE 83-02) entitled 'Zero-G Capillary Rise of Liquid through Granular Porous Media' in JSC Mockup and Integration Laboratory Bldg 9A Full Fuselage Trainer (FFT). On FFT middeck, Costes stands behind Readdy (kneeling) as Christie demonstrates experiment setup and Grabe looks on (47326). The team also examines experiment components at middeck stowage locker (47323) and at FFT open side hatch (47324, 47325). The experiment is designed to investigate the capillary and forced flow characteristics of blue-tinted water in three glass tubes with three sizes of glass beads. SE 83-02 is scheduled to be flown on STS-42 aboard Discovery, Orbiter Vehicle (OV) 103.

A Model Parameter Extraction Method for Dielectric Barrier Discharge Ozone Chamber using Differential Evolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amjad, M.; Salam, Z.; Ishaque, K.

2014-04-01

In order to design an efficient resonant power supply for ozone gas generator, it is necessary to accurately determine the parameters of the ozone chamber. In the conventional method, the information from Lissajous plot is used to estimate the values of these parameters. However, the experimental setup for this purpose can only predict the parameters at one operating frequency and there is no guarantee that it results in the highest ozone gas yield. This paper proposes a new approach to determine the parameters using a search and optimization technique known as Differential Evolution (DE). The desired objective function of DE is set at the resonance condition and the chamber parameter values can be searched regardless of experimental constraints. The chamber parameters obtained from the DE technique are validated by experiment.

Centralized and distributed control architectures under Foundation Fieldbus network.

PubMed

Persechini, Maria Auxiliadora Muanis; Jota, Fábio Gonçalves

2013-01-01

This paper aims at discussing possible automation and control system architectures based on fieldbus networks in which the controllers can be implemented either in a centralized or in a distributed form. An experimental setup is used to demonstrate some of the addressed issues. The control and automation architecture is composed of a supervisory system, a programmable logic controller and various other devices connected to a Foundation Fieldbus H1 network. The procedures used in the network configuration, in the process modelling and in the design and implementation of controllers are described. The specificities of each one of the considered logical organizations are also discussed. Finally, experimental results are analysed using an algorithm for the assessment of control loops to compare the performances between the centralized and the distributed implementations. Copyright © 2012 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The COBRA demonstrator at the LNGS underground laboratory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ebert, J.; Fritts, M.; Gehre, D.; Gößling, C.; Göpfert, T.; Hagner, C.; Heidrich, N.; Klingenberg, R.; Köttig, T.; Kröninger, K.; Michel, T.; Neddermann, T.; Nitsch, C.; Oldorf, C.; Quante, T.; Rajek, S.; Rebber, H.; Reinecke, O.; Rohatsch, K.; Schulz, O.; Sörensen, A.; Stekl, I.; Tebrügge, J.; Temminghoff, R.; Theinert, R.; Timm, J.; Wester, T.; Wonsak, B.; Zatschler, S.; Zuber, K.

2016-01-01

The COBRA demonstrator, a prototype for a large-scale experiment searching for neutrinoless double beta-decay, was built at the underground laboratory Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso (LNGS) in Italy. It consists of an array of 64 monolithic, calorimetric CdZnTe semiconductor detectors with a coplanar-grid design and a total mass of 380 g. It is used to investigate the experimental challenges faced when operating CdZnTe detectors in low-background mode, to identify potential background sources and to show the long-term stability of the detectors. The first data-taking period started in 2011 with a subset of the detectors, while the demonstrator was completed in November 2013. To date, more than 250 kg d of data have been collected. This paper describes the technical details of the experimental setup and the hardware components.

Preliminary Analysis of a Water Shield for a Surface Power Reactor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pearson, J. Boise

2006-01-01

A water based shielding system is being investigated for use on initial lunar surface power systems. The use of water may lower overall cost (as compared to development cost for other materials) and simplify operations in the setup and handling. The thermal hydraulic performance of the shield is of significant interest. The mechanism for transferring heat through the shield is natural convection. A simple 1-D thermal model indicates the necessity of natural convection to maintain acceptable temperatures and pressures in the water shield. CFD analysis is done to quantify the natural convection in the shield, and predicts sufficient natural convection to transfer heat through the shield with small temperature gradients. A test program will he designed to experimentally verify the thermal hydraulic performance of the shield, and to anchor the CFD models to experimental results.

Phenomena of Foamed Concrete under Rolling of Aircraft Wheels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Chun-shui; Yao, Hong-yu; Xiao, Xian-bo; Kong, Xiang-jun; Shi, Ya-jie

2014-04-01

Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) is an effective technique to reduce hazards associated with aircraft overrunning runway. In order to ascertain phenomena of the foamed concrete used for EMAS under rolling of aircraft wheel, a specially designed experimental setup was built which employed Boeing 737 aircraft wheels bearing actual vertical loads to roll through the foamed concrete. A number of experiments were conducted upon this setup. It is discovered that the wheel rolls the concrete in a pure rolling manner and crushes the concrete downwards, instead of crushing it forward, as long as the concrete is not higher than the wheel axle. The concrete is compressed into powder in-situ by the wheel and then is brought to bottom of the wheel. The powder under the wheel is loose and thus is not able to sustain wheel braking. It is also found that after being rolled by the wheel the concrete exhibits either of two states, i.e. either 'crushed through' whole thickness of the concrete or 'crushed halfway', depending on combination of strength of the concrete, thickness of the concrete, vertical load the wheel carries, tire dimension and tire pressure. A new EMAS design concept is developed that if an EMAS design results in the 'crushed through' state for the main gears while the 'crushed halfway' state for the nose gear, the arresting bed would be optimal to accommodate the large difference in strength between the nose gear and the main gear of an aircraft.

Accurate setup of paraspinal patients using a noninvasive patient immobilization cradle and portal imaging.

PubMed

Lovelock, D Michael; Hua, Chiaho; Wang, Ping; Hunt, Margie; Fournier-Bidoz, Nathalie; Yenice, Kamil; Toner, Sean; Lutz, Wendell; Amols, Howard; Bilsky, Mark; Fuks, Zvi; Yamada, Yoshiya

2005-08-01

Because of the proximity of the spinal cord, effective radiotherapy of paraspinal tumors to high doses requires highly conformal dose distributions, accurate patient setup, setup verification, and patient immobilization. An immobilization cradle has been designed to facilitate the rapid setup and radiation treatment of patients with paraspinal disease. For all treatments, patients were set up to within 2.5 mm of the design using an amorphous silicon portal imager. Setup reproducibility of the target using the cradle and associated clinical procedures was assessed by measuring the setup error prior to any correction. From 350 anterior/posterior images, and 303 lateral images, the standard deviations, as determined by the imaging procedure, were 1.3 m, 1.6 m, and 2.1 in the ant/post, right/left, and superior/inferior directions. Immobilization was assessed by measuring patient shifts between localization images taken before and after treatment. From 67 ant/post image pairs and 49 lateral image pairs, the standard deviations were found to be less than 1 mm in all directions. Careful patient positioning and immobilization has enabled us to develop a successful clinical program of high dose, conformal radiotherapy of paraspinal disease using a conventional Linac equipped with dynamic multileaf collimation and an amorphous silicon portal imager.

Room Temperature Erbium-Doped Yttrium Vanadate (Er:YVO4) Laser and Amplifier

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-09-01

perpendicular to the laser cavity axis, was pumped in σ-polarization and lased in π-polarization. The laser operated in a quasi -continuous wave regime...laser, amplifier, quasi -continuous wave 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT UU 18. NUMBER OF...distribution unlimited. iii Contents List of Figures iv 1. Introduction 1 2. Laser Experimental Setup and Results 2 3. Laser Amplifier Setup 6 4

Fourier Analysis of a Vibrating String through a Low-Cost Experimental Setup and a Smartphone

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pereyra, C. J.; Osorio, M.; Laguarda, A.; Gau, D. L.

2018-01-01

In this work we present a simple and low-cost setup to illustrate the dependence of the behaviour of a standing wave in a guitar string with the initial conditions. To do so, we impose two kinds of initial conditions; in the first instance, the initial shape of the string is varied. Secondly, different nodes are imposed on the string. This…

Digital micromirror device as programmable rough particle in interferometric particle imaging.

PubMed

Fromager, M; Aït Ameur, K; Brunel, M

2017-04-20

The 2D autocorrelation of the projection of an irregular rough particle can be estimated using the analysis of its interferometric out-of-focus image. We report the development of an experimental setup that creates speckle-like patterns generated by "programmable" rough particles of desired-shape. It should become an important tool for the development of new setups, configurations, and algorithms in interferometric particle imaging.

An experimental setup to characterize MR switched gradient-induced potentials.

PubMed

Fokapu, Odette; El-Tatar, Aziz

2013-06-01

We have developed an experimental setup as an in vitro research tool for studying the contamination of electrophysiological signals (EPS) by MRI environment; particularly, when due to the switched gradient-induced potentials. The system is composed of: 1) a MRI compatible module for the transmission of the EPS into the MRI tunnel, 2) a gelatin-based tissue-mimicking phantom, placed inside the tunnel, in which EPS is injected, 3) a detection module composed of a five input channel MRI compatible transmitter placed inside the tunnel, allowing an on-site pre-amplification of the bio-potentials and their transmission, via an optical fiber cable, to a four filtered output per channel receiver (350 Hz, 160 Hz, 80 Hz, and 40 Hz, for a total of 20 channels) placed in the control room, and 4) a signal processing algorithm used to analyze the generated induced potentials. A set of tests were performed to validate the electronic performances of the setup. We also present in this work an interesting application of the setup, i.e., the acquisition and analysis of the induced potentials with respect of the slice orientation for a given MRI sequence. Significant modifications of the time and frequency characteristics were observed with respect to axial, coronal or sagittal orientations.

Measurement-device-independent quantum key distribution for Scarani-Acin-Ribordy-Gisin 04 protocol

PubMed Central

Mizutani, Akihiro; Tamaki, Kiyoshi; Ikuta, Rikizo; Yamamoto, Takashi; Imoto, Nobuyuki

2014-01-01

The measurement-device-independent quantum key distribution (MDI QKD) was proposed to make BB84 completely free from any side-channel in detectors. Like in prepare & measure QKD, the use of other protocols in MDI setting would be advantageous in some practical situations. In this paper, we consider SARG04 protocol in MDI setting. The prepare & measure SARG04 is proven to be able to generate a key up to two-photon emission events. In MDI setting we show that the key generation is possible from the event with single or two-photon emission by a party and single-photon emission by the other party, but the two-photon emission event by both parties cannot contribute to the key generation. On the contrary to prepare & measure SARG04 protocol where the experimental setup is exactly the same as BB84, the measurement setup for SARG04 in MDI setting cannot be the same as that for BB84 since the measurement setup for BB84 in MDI setting induces too many bit errors. To overcome this problem, we propose two alternative experimental setups, and we simulate the resulting key rate. Our study highlights the requirements that MDI QKD poses on us regarding with the implementation of a variety of QKD protocols. PMID:24913431

Thrust Control Loop Design for Electric-Powered UAV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Byun, Heejae; Park, Sanghyuk

2018-04-01

This paper describes a process of designing a thrust control loop for an electric-powered fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicle equipped with a propeller and a motor. In particular, the modeling method of the thrust system for thrust control is described in detail and the propeller thrust and torque force are modeled using blade element theory. A relation between current and torque of the motor is obtained using an experimental setup. Another relation between current, voltage and angular velocity is also obtained. The electric motor and the propeller dynamics are combined to model the thrust dynamics. The associated trim and linearization equations are derived. Then, the thrust dynamics are coupled with the flight dynamics to allow a proper design for the thrust loop in the flight control. The proposed method is validated by an application to a testbed UAV through simulations and flight test.

Observation of giant Goos-Hänchen and angular shifts at designed metasurfaces

PubMed Central

Yallapragada, Venkata Jayasurya; Ravishankar, Ajith P.; Mulay, Gajendra L.; Agarwal, Girish S.; Achanta, Venu Gopal

2016-01-01

Metasurfaces with sub-wavelength features are useful in modulating the phase, amplitude or polarization of electromagnetic fields. While several applications are reported for light manipulation and control, the sharp phase changes would be useful in enhancing the beam shifts at reflection from a metasurface. In designed periodic patterns on metal film, at surface plasmon resonance, we demonstrate Goos-Hanchen shift of the order of 70 times the incident wavelength and the angular shifts of several hundred microradians. We have designed the patterns using rigorous coupled wave analysis (RCWA) together with S-matrices and have used a complete vector theory to calculate the shifts as well as demonstrate a versatile experimental setup to directly measure the shifts. The giant shifts demonstrated could prove to be useful in enhancing the sensitivity of experiments ranging from atomic force microscopy to gravitational wave detection. PMID:26758471

Improving mixing efficiency of a polymer micromixer by use of a plastic shim divider

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Lei; Lee, L. James; Castro, Jose M.; Yi, Allen Y.

2010-03-01

In this paper, a critical modification to a polymer based affordable split-and-recombination static micromixer is described. To evaluate the improvement, both the original and the modified design were carefully investigated using an experimental setup and numerical modeling approach. The structure of the micromixer was designed to take advantage of the process capabilities of both ultraprecision micromachining and microinjection molding process. Specifically, the original and the modified design were numerically simulated using commercial finite element method software ANSYS CFX to assist the re-designing of the micromixers. The simulation results have shown that both designs are capable of performing mixing while the modified design has a much improved performance. Mixing experiments with two different fluids were carried out using the original and the modified mixers again showed a significantly improved mixing uniformity by the latter. The measured mixing coefficient for the original design was 0.11, and for the improved design it was 0.065. The developed manufacturing process based on ultraprecision machining and microinjection molding processes for device fabrication has the advantage of high-dimensional precision, low cost and manufacturing flexibility.

Automated quantum operations in photonic qutrits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borges, G. F.; Baldijão, R. D.; Condé, J. G. L.; Cabral, J. S.; Marques, B.; Terra Cunha, M.; Cabello, A.; Pádua, S.

2018-02-01

We report an experimental implementation of automated state transformations on spatial photonic qutrits following the theoretical proposal made by Baldijão et al. [Phys. Rev. A 96, 032329 (2017), 10.1103/PhysRevA.96.032329]. A qutrit state is simulated by using three Gaussian beams, and after some state operations, the transformed state is available in the end in terms of the basis state. The state transformation setup uses a spatial light modulator and a calcite-based interferometer. The results reveal the usefulness of the operation method. The experimental data show a good agreement with theoretical predictions, opening possibilities for explorations in higher dimensions and in a wide range of applications. This is a necessary step in qualifying spatial photonic qudits as a competitive setup for experimental research in the implementation of quantum algorithms which demand a large number of steps.

Experimental setup and procedure for the measurement of the 7Be(n,p)7Li reaction at n_TOF

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barbagallo, M.; Andrzejewski, J.; Mastromarco, M.; Perkowski, J.; Damone, L. A.; Gawlik, A.; Cosentino, L.; Finocchiaro, P.; Maugeri, E. A.; Mazzone, A.; Dressler, R.; Heinitz, S.; Kivel, N.; Schumann, D.; Colonna, N.; Aberle, O.; Amaducci, S.; Audouin, L.; Bacak, M.; Balibrea, J.; Bečvář, F.; Bellia, G.; Berthoumieux, E.; Billowes, J.; Bosnar, D.; Brown, A.; Caamaño, M.; Calviño, F.; Calviani, M.; Cano-Ott, D.; Cardella, R.; Casanovas, A.; Cerutti, F.; Chen, Y. H.; Chiaveri, E.; Cortés, G.; Cortés-Giraldo, M. A.; Cristallo, S.; Diakaki, M.; Dietz, M.; Domingo-Pardo, C.; Dupont, E.; Durán, I.; Fernández-Domínguez, B.; Ferrari, A.; Ferreira, P.; Furman, V.; Göbel, K.; García, A. R.; Gilardoni, S.; Glodariu, T.; Gonçalves, I. F.; González-Romero, E.; Griesmayer, E.; Guerrero, C.; Gunsing, F.; Harada, H.; Heyse, J.; Jenkins, D. G.; Jericha, E.; Johnston, K.; Käppeler, F.; Kadi, Y.; Kalamara, A.; Kavrigin, P.; Kimura, A.; Kokkoris, M.; Krtička, M.; Kurtulgil, D.; Leal-Cidoncha, E.; Lederer, C.; Leeb, H.; Lerendegui-Marco, J.; Lo Meo, S.; Lonsdale, S. J.; Macina, D.; Manna, A.; Marganiec, J.; Martínez, T.; Martins-Correia, J. G.; Masi, A.; Massimi, C.; Mastinu, P.; Mendoza, E.; Mengoni, A.; Milazzo, P. M.; Mingrone, F.; Musumarra, A.; Negret, A.; Nolte, R.; Oprea, A.; Pappalardo, A. D.; Patronis, N.; Pavlik, A.; Piscopo, M.; Porras, I.; Praena, J.; Quesada, J. M.; Radeck, D.; Rauscher, T.; Reifarth, R.; Robles, M. S.; Rubbia, C.; Ryan, J. A.; Sabaté-Gilarte, M.; Saxena, A.; Schell, J.; Schillebeeckx, P.; Sedyshev, P.; Smith, A. G.; Sosnin, N. V.; Stamatopoulos, A.; Tagliente, G.; Tain, J. L.; Tarifeño-Saldivia, A.; Tassan-Got, L.; Valenta, S.; Vannini, G.; Variale, V.; Vaz, P.; Ventura, A.; Vlachoudis, V.; Vlastou, R.; Wallner, A.; Warren, S.; Weiss, C.; Woods, P. J.; Wright, T.; Žugec, P.

2018-04-01

Following the completion of the second neutron beam line and the related experimental area (EAR2) at the n_TOF spallation neutron source at CERN, several experiments were planned and performed. The high instantaneous neutron flux available in EAR2 allows to investigate neutron induced reactions with charged particles in the exit channel even employing targets made out of small amounts of short-lived radioactive isotopes. After the successful measurement of the 7Be(n, α) α cross section, the 7Be(n,p)7Li reaction was studied in order to provide still missing cross section data of relevance for Big Bang Nucleosynthesis (BBN), in an attempt to find a solution to the cosmological Lithium abundance problem. This paper describes the experimental setup employed in such a measurement and its characterization.

Optimization of hydrogen and syngas production from PKS gasification by using coal bottom ash.

PubMed

Shahbaz, Muhammad; Yusup, Suzana; Inayat, Abrar; Patrick, David Onoja; Pratama, Angga; Ammar, Muhamamd

2017-10-01

Catalytic steam gasification of palm kernel shell is investigated to optimize operating parameters for hydrogen and syngas production using TGA-MS setup. RSM is used for experimental design and evaluating the effect of temperature, particle size, CaO/biomass ratio, and coal bottom ash wt% on hydrogen and syngas. Hydrogen production appears highly sensitive to all factors, especially temperature and coal bottom ash wt%. In case of syngas, the order of parametric influence is: CaO/biomass>coal bottom ash wt%>temperature>particle size. The significant catalytic effect of coal bottom ash is due to the presence of Fe 2 O 3 , MgO, Al 2 O 3 , and CaO. A temperature of 692°C, coal bottom ash wt% of 0.07, CaO/biomass of 1.42, and particle size of 0.75mm are the optimum conditions for augmented yield of hydrogen and syngas. The production of hydrogen and syngas is 1.5% higher in the pilot scale gasifier as compared to TGA-MS setup. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

4He sample probe for combined microwave and dc transport measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dobrovolskiy, Oleksandr V.; Franke, Jörg; Huth, Michael

2015-03-01

Combined microwave and dc electrical transport measurements at low temperatures represent a valuable experimental method in many research areas. In particular, when samples are conventional superconductors, a typical experiment requires a combination of helium temperatures, a wide range of magnetic fields, and the utilization of coaxial lines along with the usual dc wiring. We report on the general design features and the microwave performance of a custom-made low-temperature sample probe, with a measurement bandwidth tested from dc to 20 GHz. Equipped with six coaxial cables, a heater, Hall and temperature sensors, the probe fits into a ⊘32 mm shaft. We present our setup, analyze its microwave performance, and describe two representative experiments enabled by this system. The proposed setup will be essential for a systematic study of the dc and ac response of the vortex dynamics in nanopatterned superconductors subject to combined dc and microwave stimuli. Besides, it will be valuable for the investigation of a broad class of nonlinear stochastic systems where a combination of dc and high-frequency ac driving in a wide temperature range is necessary.

A high-resolution frequency variable experimental setup for studying ferrofluids used in magnetic hyperthermia.

PubMed

Mazon, E E; Villa-Martínez, E; Hernández-Sámano, A; Córdova-Fraga, T; Ibarra-Sánchez, J J; Calleja, H A; Leyva Cruz, J A; Barrera, A; Estrada, J C; Paz, J A; Quintero, L H; Cano, M E

2017-08-01

A scanning system for specific absorption rate of ferrofluids with superparamagnetic nanoparticles is presented in this study. The system contains an induction heating device designed and built with a resonant inverter in order to generate magnetic field amplitudes up to 38 mT, over the frequency band 180-525 kHz. Its resonant circuit involves a variable capacitor with 1 nF of capacitance steps to easily select the desired frequency, reaching from 0.3 kHz/nF up to 5 kHz/nF of resolution. The device performance is characterized in order to compare with the theoretical predictions of frequency and amplitude, showing a good agreement with the resonant inverters theory. Additionally, the setup is tested using a synthetic iron oxide with 10 ± 1 nm diameter suspended in liquid glycerol, with concentrations at 1%. Meanwhile, the temperature rise is measured to determine the specific absorption rate and calculate the dissipated power density for each f. This device is a suitable alternative to studying ferrofluids and analyzes the dependence of the power absorption density with the magnetic field intensity and frequency.

A threshold theory of the humor response.

PubMed

Epstein, Robert; Joker, Veronica R

2007-01-01

The humor response has long been considered mysterious, and it is given relatively little attention in modern experimental psychology, in spite of the fact that numerous studies suggest that it has substantial benefits for mood and health. Existing theories of humor fail to account for some of the most basic humor phenomena. On most occasions when a humor response occurs, certain verbal or visual stimuli (the "setup" stimuli, which function as an establishing operation) must precede a critical stimulus (such as a "punch line" or the final panel or critical feature of a cartoon), which then occasions a sudden "revelation" or "understanding"; this revelation is often accompanied by the humor response. We suggest that the setup stimuli increase the strength of the revelatory response to a point just below the threshold of awareness and that the critical stimulus, properly designed and timed, edges the revelatory response to a point just above threshold. We also suggest that it is this threshold phenomenon that produces most instances of the humor response. We discuss these issues in the context of some notable humor of Carl Rogers and B. F. Skinner.

Thai National Telescope beam simulator testbed development status

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buisset, Christophe; Prasit, Apirat; Lépine, Thierry; Poshyachinda, Saran; Leckngam, A.

2016-07-01

The Thai National Telescope (TNT) is a Ritchey-Chretien Telescope with a clear aperture ΦM1 = 2.3 m, a focal ratio f/10 and a central obstruction Obsc = 0.3. The TNT is the main instrument of the Thai National Observatory (TNO) which is located near the summit of the Doi Inthanon, situated in the Chiang Mai Province of Thailand at altitude 2,457 meters. The median seeing on this site is approximately 0.9" and is remarkably stable on most nights, rarely exceeding 2". We decided to develop an optical setup to simulate in laboratory conditions the geometry of the TNT output beam. This, in order to carefully prepare and to improve the efficiency of the test to be performed in real conditions at the TNT focal plane level. We specified the setup to be representative of the TNT optical design, beam aperture, central obscuration, geometry of the spider, wavefront quality and PSF size under various seeing conditions. This setup comprises 2 identical Cassegrain telescopes mounted on dedicated supports with 5 degree-of-Freedom. The first application of this setup will be the preparation of the TNT optical alignment. The second application of this setup will be the development and the test of the future instruments for the TNT such as a focal reducer or a spectrograph. In this paper, we discuss the setup specifications we describe the setup optical and mechanical design and we present the performance.

Pragmatic setup for bioparticle responses by dielectrophoresis for resource limited environment application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ali, Mohd Anuar Md; Yeop Majlis, Burhanuddin; Kayani, Aminuddin Ahmad

2017-12-01

Various dielectrophoretic responses of bioparticles, including cell-chain, spinning, rotation and clustering, are of high interest in the field due to their benefit into application for biomedical and clinical implementation potential. Numerous attempts using sophisticated equipment setup have been studied to perform those dielectrophoretic responses, however, for development into resource limited environment application, such as portable, sustainable and environmental friendly diagnostic tools, establishment of pragmatic setup using standard, non-sophisticated and low-cost equipment is of important task. Here we show the advantages in the judicious design optimization of tip microelectrode, also with selection of suspending medium and optimization of electric signal configuration in establishing setup that can promote the aforementioned dielectrophoretic responses within standard equipments, i.e. pragmatic setup.

Multi Ray Model for Near-Ground Millimeter Wave Radar

PubMed Central

Litvak, Boris; Pinhasi, Yosef

2017-01-01

A quasi-optical multi-ray model for a short-range millimeter wave radar is presented. The model considers multi-path effects emerging while multiple rays are scattered from the target and reflected to the radar receiver. Among the examined scenarios, the special case of grazing ground reflections is analyzed. Such a case becomes relevant when short range anti-collision radars are employed in vehicles. Such radars operate at millimeter wavelengths, and are aimed at the detection of targets located several tens of meters from the transmitter. Reflections from the road are expected to play a role in the received signal strength, together with the direct line-of-sight beams illuminated and scattered from the target. The model is demonstrated experimentally using radar operating in the W-band. Controlled measurements were done to distinguish between several scattering target features. The experimental setup was designed to imitate vehicle near-ground millimeter wave radars operating in vehicles. A comparison between analytical calculations and experimental results is made and discussed. PMID:28867776

A method based on infrared detection for determining the moisture content of ceramic plaster materials.

PubMed

Macias-Melo, E V; Aguilar-Castro, K M; Alvarez-Lemus, M A; Flores-Prieto, J J

2015-09-01

In this work, we describe a methodology for developing a mathematical model based on infrared (IR) detection to determine the moisture content (M) in solid samples. For this purpose, an experimental setup was designed, developed and calibrated against the gravimetric method. The experimental arrangement allowed for the simultaneous measurement of M and the electromotive force (EMF), fitting the experimental variables as much as possible. These variables were correlated by a mathematical model, and the obtained correlation was M=1.12×exp(3.47×EMF), ±2.54%. This finding suggests that it is feasible to measure the moisture content when it has greater values than 2.54%. The proposed methodology could be used for different conditions of temperature, relative humidity and drying rates to evaluate the influence of these variables on the amount of energy received by the IR detector. Copyright © 2015 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Squeeze strengthening of magnetorheological fluids using mixed mode operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Becnel, A. C.; Sherman, S. G.; Hu, W.; Wereley, N. M.

2015-05-01

This research details a novel method of increasing the shear yield stress of magnetorheological fluids by combining shear and squeeze modes of operation to manipulate particle chain structures, so-called squeeze strengthening. Using a custom built Searle cell magnetorheometer, which is a model device emulating a rotary magnetorheological energy absorber (MREA), the contribution of squeeze strengthening to the total controllable yield force is experimentally investigated. Using an eccentric rotating inner cylinder, characterization data from large (1 mm) and small (0.25 mm) nominal gap geometries are compared to investigate the squeeze strengthening effect. Details of the experimental setup and method are presented, and a hybrid model is used to explain experimental trends. This study demonstrates that it is feasible, utilizing squeeze strengthening to increase yield stress, to either (1) design a rotary MREA of a given volume to achieve higher energy absorption density (energy absorbed normalized by active fluid volume), or (2) reduce the volume of a given rotary MREA to achieve the same energy absorption density.

EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF THE ORTHO/PARA RATIO OF NEWLY FORMED MOLECULAR HYDROGEN ON AMORPHOUS SOLID WATER

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gavilan, L.; Lemaire, J. L.; Dulieu, F.

2012-11-20

Several astronomical observations have shown that the ortho/para ratio (OPR) of H{sub 2} can differ from the expected statistical value of 3 or the local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) value at the gas or dust temperature. It is thus important to know the OPR of H{sub 2} newly formed on dust grain surfaces, in order to clarify the dependence of the observed OPR in space on the formation process. Using an experimental setup designed to mimic interstellar medium environments, we measured the OPR of H{sub 2} and D{sub 2} formed on the surface of porous amorphous water ice held at 10more » K. We report for the first time the OPR value for newly formed D{sub 2}, consistent with the expected LTE value at the high-temperature limit found by previous theoretical and experimental works on the determination of the OPR upon H{sub 2} formation on surfaces at low temperature.« less

Water dissociation in a radio-frequency electromagnetic field with ex situ electrodes—modelling of discharge initiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schneider, Jens; Holzer, Frank; Rabe, Carsten; Häupl, Tilmann; Kopinke, Frank-Dieter; Roland, Ulf

2013-04-01

Applying a new experimental design with a capillary glass reactor and plate electrodes outside of the reactor allowed the initiation of discharges in aqueous electrolytes under the influence of a radio-frequency (RF) electromagnetic field. This study focused on the mechanism leading to the initiation of such discharges in the restriction of a glass tube. The light emission correlated with discharges was analysed with optical emission spectroscopy. Electrons with energies between 20 and 45 eV were responsible for the dissociation of water molecules into (excited) OH, H and O radicals. Current-voltage characteristics were measured before and under discharge conditions. Modelling of the experimental setup and simulation of electrical field strength distribution support the hypothesis of the origin of discharges in general and experimental findings such as ring-shaped discharges and a minimum solution conductivity of about 1 S m-1 required for discharge initiation with RF voltages of 2 kV.

Plasma treatment of polyethylene tubes in continuous regime using surface dielectric barrier discharge with water electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galmiz, Oleksandr; Zemánek, Miroslav; Pavliňák, David; Černák, Mirko

2018-05-01

Combining the surface dielectric barrier discharges generated in contact with water based electrolytes, as the discharge electrodes, we have designed a new type of surface electric discharge, generating thin layers of plasma which propagate along the treated polymer surfaces. The technique was aimed to achieve uniform atmospheric pressure plasma treatment of polymeric tubes and other hollow bodies. The results presented in this work show the possibility of such system to treat outer surface of polymer materials in a continuous mode. The technical details of experimental setup are discussed as well as results of treatment of polyethylene tubes are shown.

A slewing control experiment for flexible structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Juang, J.-N.; Horta, L. G.; Robertshaw, H. H.

1985-01-01

A hardware set-up has been developed to study slewing control for flexible structures including a steel beam and a solar panel. The linear optimal terminal control law is used to design active controllers which are implemented in an analog computer. The objective of this experiment is to demonstrate and verify the dynamics and optimal terminal control laws as applied to flexible structures for large angle maneuver. Actuation is provided by an electric motor while sensing is given by strain gages and angle potentiometer. Experimental measurements are compared with analytical predictions in terms of modal parameters of the system stability matrix and sufficient agreement is achieved to validate the theory.

Verification and implementation of set-up empirical models in pile design : research project capsule.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-08-01

The primary objectives of this research include: performing static and dynamic load tests on : newly instrumented test piles to better understand the set-up mechanism for individual soil : layers, verifying or recalibrating previously developed empir...

Implementation of an automated test setup for measuring electrical conductance of concrete.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2007-01-01

This project was designed to provide the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) with an automated laboratory setup for performing the rapid chloride permeability test (RCPT) to measure the electrical conductance of concrete in accordance with a...

Investigation of droplet nucleation in CCS relevant systems - design and testing of the expansion chamber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Čenský, Miroslav; Hrubý, Jan; Vinš, Václav; Hykl, Jiří; Šmíd, Bohuslav

2018-06-01

A unique in-house designed experimental apparatus for investigation of nucleation of droplets in CCS relevant systems is being developed by the present team. The apparatus allows simulating various processes relevant to CCS technologies. Gaseous mixtures with CO2 are prepared in a Mixture Preparation Device (MPD) based on accurate adjustment of flow rates of individual components [EPJ Web of Conferences 143, 02140 (2017)]. The mixture then flows into an expansion chamber, where it undergoes a rapid adiabatic expansion. As a consequence of adiabatic cooling, the mixture becomes supersaturated and nucleation and simultaneous growth of droplets occurs. In this study, we describe the design and testing of the expansion part of the experimental setup. The rapid expansion was realized using two valve systems, one for low pressures (up to 0.7 MPa) and the other for high pressures (up to 10 MPa). A challenge for a proper design of the expansion system is avoiding acoustic oscillations. These can occur either in the mode of Helmholtz resonator, where the compressible gas in the chamber acts as a spring and the rapidly moving gas in the valve system as a mass, or in the "flute" mode, where acoustic waves are generated in a long outlet tubing.

A low-cost, computer-controlled robotic flower system for behavioral experiments.

PubMed

Kuusela, Erno; Lämsä, Juho

2016-04-01

Human observations during behavioral studies are expensive, time-consuming, and error prone. For this reason, automatization of experiments is highly desirable, as it reduces the risk of human errors and workload. The robotic system we developed is simple and cheap to build and handles feeding and data collection automatically. The system was built using mostly off-the-shelf components and has a novel feeding mechanism that uses servos to perform refill operations. We used the robotic system in two separate behavioral studies with bumblebees (Bombus terrestris): The system was used both for training of the bees and for the experimental data collection. The robotic system was reliable, with no flight in our studies failing due to a technical malfunction. The data recorded were easy to apply for further analysis. The software and the hardware design are open source. The development of cheap open-source prototyping platforms during the recent years has opened up many possibilities in designing of experiments. Automatization not only reduces workload, but also potentially allows experimental designs never done before, such as dynamic experiments, where the system responds to, for example, learning of the animal. We present a complete system with hardware and software, and it can be used as such in various experiments requiring feeders and collection of visitation data. Use of the system is not limited to any particular experimental setup or even species.

Real-time 2D spatially selective MRI experiments: Comparative analysis of optimal control design methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maximov, Ivan I.; Vinding, Mads S.; Tse, Desmond H. Y.; Nielsen, Niels Chr.; Shah, N. Jon

2015-05-01

There is an increasing need for development of advanced radio-frequency (RF) pulse techniques in modern magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems driven by recent advancements in ultra-high magnetic field systems, new parallel transmit/receive coil designs, and accessible powerful computational facilities. 2D spatially selective RF pulses are an example of advanced pulses that have many applications of clinical relevance, e.g., reduced field of view imaging, and MR spectroscopy. The 2D spatially selective RF pulses are mostly generated and optimised with numerical methods that can handle vast controls and multiple constraints. With this study we aim at demonstrating that numerical, optimal control (OC) algorithms are efficient for the design of 2D spatially selective MRI experiments, when robustness towards e.g. field inhomogeneity is in focus. We have chosen three popular OC algorithms; two which are gradient-based, concurrent methods using first- and second-order derivatives, respectively; and a third that belongs to the sequential, monotonically convergent family. We used two experimental models: a water phantom, and an in vivo human head. Taking into consideration the challenging experimental setup, our analysis suggests the use of the sequential, monotonic approach and the second-order gradient-based approach as computational speed, experimental robustness, and image quality is key. All algorithms used in this work were implemented in the MATLAB environment and are freely available to the MRI community.

Development of an automated experimental setup for the study of ionic-exchange kinetics. Application to the ionic adsorption, equilibrium attainment and dissolution of apatite compounds.

PubMed

Thomann, J M; Gasser, P; Bres, E F; Voegel, J C; Gramain, P

1990-02-01

An ion-selective electrode and microcomputer-based experimental setup for the study of ionic-exchange kinetics between a powdered solid and the solution is described. The equipment is composed of easily available commercial devices and a data acquisition and regularization computer program is presented. The system, especially developed to investigate the ionic adsorption, equilibrium attainment and dissolution of hard mineralized tissues, provides good reliable results by taking into account the volume changes of the reacting solution and the electrode behaviour under different experimental conditions, and by avoiding carbonation of the solution. A second computer program, using the regularized data and the experimental parameters, calculates the quantities of protons consumed and calcium released in the case of equilibrium attainment and dissolution of apatite-like compounds. Finally, typical examples of ion-exchange and dissolution kinetics under constant pH of enamel and synthetic hydroxyapatite are examined.

An experimental study of dependence of hydro turbine vibration parameters on pressure pulsations in the flow path

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dekterev, D.; Maslennikova, A.; Abramov, A.

2017-09-01

The operation modes of the hydraulic power plant water turbine with the formation of a precessing vortex core were studied on the hydrodynamic set-up with the model of hydraulic unit. The dependence of low-frequency vibrations on flow pressure pulsations in the hydraulic unit was established. The results of the air injection effect on the vibrational parameters of the hydrodynamic set-up were presented.

Experiments and Simulations of Exploding Aluminum Wires: Validation of ALEGRA-MHD

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-09-01

ii REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE Form Approved OMB No. 0704-0188 Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 ...currently valid OMB control number. PLEASE DO NOT RETURN YOUR FORM TO THE ABOVE ADDRESS. 1 . REPORT DATE (DD-MM-YYYY) September 2010 2. REPORT TYPE Final...List of Tables vi Acknowledgements vii 1 . Introduction 1 2. Experimental Setup 2 3. Computational Setup 5 3.1 Description of ALEGRA

Numerical modelling of distributed vibration sensor based on phase-sensitive OTDR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Masoudi, A.; Newson, T. P.

2017-04-01

A Distributed Vibration Sensor Based on Phase-Sensitive OTDR is numerically modeled. The advantage of modeling the building blocks of the sensor individually and combining the blocks to analyse the behavior of the sensing system is discussed. It is shown that the numerical model can accurately imitate the response of the experimental setup to dynamic perturbations a signal processing procedure similar to that used to extract the phase information from sensing setup.

Investigation on bending failure to characterize crashworthiness of 6xxx-series aluminium sheet alloys with bending-tension test procedure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Henn, Philipp; Liewald, Mathias; Sindel, Manfred

2018-05-01

As lightweight design as well as crash performance are crucial to future car body design, exact material characterisation is important to use materials at their full potential and reach maximum efficiency. Within the scope of this paper, the potential of newly established bending-tension test procedure to characterise material crashworthiness is investigated. In this test setup for the determination of material failure, a buckling-bending test is coupled with a subsequent tensile test. If prior bending load is critical, tensile strength and elongation in the subsequent tensile test are dramatically reduced. The new test procedure therefore offers an applicable definition of failure as the incapacity of energy consumption in subsequent phases of the crash represents failure of a component. In addition to that, the correlation of loading condition with actual crash scenarios (buckling and free bending) is improved compared to three- point bending test. The potential of newly established bending-tension test procedure to characterise material crashworthiness is investigated in this experimental studys on two aluminium sheet alloys. Experimental results are validated with existing ductility characterisation from edge compression test.

Minimizing Experimental Setup Time and Effort at APS beamline 1-ID through Instrumentation Design

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Benda, Erika; Almer, Jonathan; Kenesei, Peter

2016-01-01

Sector 1-ID at the APS accommodates a number of dif-ferent experimental techniques in the same spatial enve-lope of the E-hutch end station. These include high-energy small and wide angle X-ray scattering (SAXS and WAXS), high-energy diffraction microscopy (HEDM, both near and far field modes) and high-energy X-ray tomography. These techniques are frequently combined to allow the users to obtain multimodal data, often attaining 1 μm spatial resolution and <0.05º angular resolution. Furthermore, these techniques are utilized while the sam-ple is thermo-mechanically loaded to mimic real operat-ing conditions. The instrumentation required for each of these techniques and environments has been designedmore » and configured in a modular way with a focus on stability and repeatability between changeovers. This approach allows the end station to be more versatile, capable of collecting multi-modal data in-situ while reducing time and effort typically required for set up and alignment, resulting in more efficient beam time use. Key instrumentation de-sign features and layout of the end station are presented.« less

Automated measurement of mouse social behaviors using depth sensing, video tracking, and machine learning.

PubMed

Hong, Weizhe; Kennedy, Ann; Burgos-Artizzu, Xavier P; Zelikowsky, Moriel; Navonne, Santiago G; Perona, Pietro; Anderson, David J

2015-09-22

A lack of automated, quantitative, and accurate assessment of social behaviors in mammalian animal models has limited progress toward understanding mechanisms underlying social interactions and their disorders such as autism. Here we present a new integrated hardware and software system that combines video tracking, depth sensing, and machine learning for automatic detection and quantification of social behaviors involving close and dynamic interactions between two mice of different coat colors in their home cage. We designed a hardware setup that integrates traditional video cameras with a depth camera, developed computer vision tools to extract the body "pose" of individual animals in a social context, and used a supervised learning algorithm to classify several well-described social behaviors. We validated the robustness of the automated classifiers in various experimental settings and used them to examine how genetic background, such as that of Black and Tan Brachyury (BTBR) mice (a previously reported autism model), influences social behavior. Our integrated approach allows for rapid, automated measurement of social behaviors across diverse experimental designs and also affords the ability to develop new, objective behavioral metrics.

Peer review and competition in the Art Exhibition Game.

PubMed

Balietti, Stefano; Goldstone, Robert L; Helbing, Dirk

2016-07-26

To investigate the effect of competitive incentives under peer review, we designed a novel experimental setup called the Art Exhibition Game. We present experimental evidence of how competition introduces both positive and negative effects when creative artifacts are evaluated and selected by peer review. Competition proved to be a double-edged sword: on the one hand, it fosters innovation and product diversity, but on the other hand, it also leads to more unfair reviews and to a lower level of agreement between reviewers. Moreover, an external validation of the quality of peer reviews during the laboratory experiment, based on 23,627 online evaluations on Amazon Mechanical Turk, shows that competition does not significantly increase the level of creativity. Furthermore, the higher rejection rate under competitive conditions does not improve the average quality of published contributions, because more high-quality work is also rejected. Overall, our results could explain why many ground-breaking studies in science end up in lower-tier journals. Differences and similarities between the Art Exhibition Game and scholarly peer review are discussed and the implications for the design of new incentive systems for scientists are explained.

Automated measurement of mouse social behaviors using depth sensing, video tracking, and machine learning

PubMed Central

Hong, Weizhe; Kennedy, Ann; Burgos-Artizzu, Xavier P.; Zelikowsky, Moriel; Navonne, Santiago G.; Perona, Pietro; Anderson, David J.

2015-01-01

A lack of automated, quantitative, and accurate assessment of social behaviors in mammalian animal models has limited progress toward understanding mechanisms underlying social interactions and their disorders such as autism. Here we present a new integrated hardware and software system that combines video tracking, depth sensing, and machine learning for automatic detection and quantification of social behaviors involving close and dynamic interactions between two mice of different coat colors in their home cage. We designed a hardware setup that integrates traditional video cameras with a depth camera, developed computer vision tools to extract the body “pose” of individual animals in a social context, and used a supervised learning algorithm to classify several well-described social behaviors. We validated the robustness of the automated classifiers in various experimental settings and used them to examine how genetic background, such as that of Black and Tan Brachyury (BTBR) mice (a previously reported autism model), influences social behavior. Our integrated approach allows for rapid, automated measurement of social behaviors across diverse experimental designs and also affords the ability to develop new, objective behavioral metrics. PMID:26354123

Refractive Index Compensation in Over-Determined Interferometric Systems

PubMed Central

Lazar, Josef; Holá, Miroslava; Číp, Ondřej; Čížek, Martin; Hrabina, Jan; Buchta, Zdeněk

2012-01-01

We present an interferometric technique based on a differential interferometry setup for measurement under atmospheric conditions. The key limiting factor in any interferometric dimensional measurement are fluctuations of the refractive index of air representing a dominating source of uncertainty when evaluated indirectly from the physical parameters of the atmosphere. Our proposal is based on the concept of an over-determined interferometric setup where a reference length is derived from a mechanical frame made from a material with a very low thermal coefficient. The technique allows one to track the variations of the refractive index of air on-line directly in the line of the measuring beam and to compensate for the fluctuations. The optical setup consists of three interferometers sharing the same beam path where two measure differentially the displacement while the third evaluates the changes in the measuring range, acting as a tracking refractometer. The principle is demonstrated in an experimental setup. PMID:23202037

Refractive index compensation in over-determined interferometric systems.

PubMed

Lazar, Josef; Holá, Miroslava; Číp, Ondřej; Čížek, Martin; Hrabina, Jan; Buchta, Zdeněk

2012-10-19

We present an interferometric technique based on a differential interferometry setup for measurement under atmospheric conditions. The key limiting factor in any interferometric dimensional measurement are fluctuations of the refractive index of air representing a dominating source of uncertainty when evaluated indirectly from the physical parameters of the atmosphere. Our proposal is based on the concept of an over-determined interferometric setup where a reference length is derived from a mechanical frame made from a material with a very low thermal coefficient. The technique allows one to track the variations of the refractive index of air on-line directly in the line of the measuring beam and to compensate for the fluctuations. The optical setup consists of three interferometers sharing the same beam path where two measure differentially the displacement while the third evaluates the changes in the measuring range, acting as a tracking refractometer. The principle is demonstrated in an experimental setup.

Design of Degaussing System and Demonstration of Signature Reduction on Ship Model through Laboratory Experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Varma, R. A. Raveendra

Magnetic fields of naval vessels are widely used all over the world for detection and localization of naval vessel. Magnetic Anomaly Detectors (MADs) installed on air borne vehicles are used to detect submarine operating in shallow waters. Underwater mines fitted with magnetic sensor are used for detection and destruction of naval vessels in the times of conflict. Reduction of magnetic signature of naval vessels is carried out by deperming and installation of degaussing system onboard the vessel. Present paper elaborates details of studies carried out at Magnetics Division of Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) for minimizing the magnetic signature of naval vessels by designing a degaussing system. Magnetic fields of a small ship model are predicted and a degaussing system is designed for reducing magnetic detection. The details of the model, methodology used for estimation of magnetic signature of the vessel and design of degaussing system is brought out in this paper with details of experimental setup and results.

An investigation of the usability of sound recognition for source separation of packaging wastes in reverse vending machines.

PubMed

Korucu, M Kemal; Kaplan, Özgür; Büyük, Osman; Güllü, M Kemal

2016-10-01

In this study, we investigate the usability of sound recognition for source separation of packaging wastes in reverse vending machines (RVMs). For this purpose, an experimental setup equipped with a sound recording mechanism was prepared. Packaging waste sounds generated by three physical impacts such as free falling, pneumatic hitting and hydraulic crushing were separately recorded using two different microphones. To classify the waste types and sizes based on sound features of the wastes, a support vector machine (SVM) and a hidden Markov model (HMM) based sound classification systems were developed. In the basic experimental setup in which only free falling impact type was considered, SVM and HMM systems provided 100% classification accuracy for both microphones. In the expanded experimental setup which includes all three impact types, material type classification accuracies were 96.5% for dynamic microphone and 97.7% for condenser microphone. When both the material type and the size of the wastes were classified, the accuracy was 88.6% for the microphones. The modeling studies indicated that hydraulic crushing impact type recordings were very noisy for an effective sound recognition application. In the detailed analysis of the recognition errors, it was observed that most of the errors occurred in the hitting impact type. According to the experimental results, it can be said that the proposed novel approach for the separation of packaging wastes could provide a high classification performance for RVMs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Laboratory grown subaerial biofilms on granite: application to the study of bioreceptivity.

PubMed

Vázquez-Nion, Daniel; Silva, Benita; Troiano, Federica; Prieto, Beatriz

2017-01-01

Simulated environmental colonisation of granite was induced under laboratory conditions in order to develop an experimental protocol for studying bioreceptivity. The experimental set-up proved suitable for producing subaerial biofilms by inoculating granite blocks with planktonic multi-species phototrophic cultures derived from natural biofilms. The ability of four different cultures to form biofilms was monitored over a three-month growth period via colour measurements, quantification of photosynthetic pigments and EPS, and CLSM observations. One of the cultures under study, which comprised several taxa including Bryophyta, Charophyta, Chlorophyta and Cyanobacteria, was particularly suitable as an inoculum, mainly because of its microbial richness, its rapid adaptability to the substratum and its high colonisation capacity. The use of this culture as an inoculum in the proposed experimental set-up to produce subaerial biofilms under laboratory conditions will contribute to standardising the protocols involved, thus enabling more objective assessment of the bioreceptivity of granite in further experiments.

An introduction to photocatalysis through methylene blue photodegradation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petit, Matthieu; Michez, Lisa; Raimundo, Jean-Manuel; Malinowski, Tuhiti; Dumas, Philippe

2016-11-01

We described a simple experimental set-up for lab work on the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue by TiO2 nanoparticles. The photocatalysis process can be used for many applications. Treatments for diluted wastewater industries, air purifying in underground car parks, and preventing fouling on glass surfaces, are some of the potential applications of this phenomenon. The described experiment is easy to perform and the interpretation can be easily adapted to different levels of students, from high school students demonstrating their interest in sustainable development, to students obtaining a Masters in science departments who want to propose a full explanation for all phenomena of the photocatalytic process. Starting with a description of the experimental set-up, we analysed the photocatalyst nanoparticles and applied the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model to our experimental data. Finally we briefly discussed the respective energetic levels of the photocatalyst semiconductor and methylene blue.

Generation of a tunable environment for electrical oscillator systems.

PubMed

León-Montiel, R de J; Svozilík, J; Torres, Juan P

2014-07-01

Many physical, chemical, and biological systems can be modeled by means of random-frequency harmonic oscillator systems. Even though the noise-free evolution of harmonic oscillator systems can be easily implemented, the way to experimentally introduce, and control, noise effects due to a surrounding environment remains a subject of lively interest. Here, we experimentally demonstrate a setup that provides a unique tool to generate a fully tunable environment for classical electrical oscillator systems. We illustrate the operation of the setup by implementing the case of a damped random-frequency harmonic oscillator. The high degree of tunability and control of our scheme is demonstrated by gradually modifying the statistics of the oscillator's frequency fluctuations. This tunable system can readily be used to experimentally study interesting noise effects, such as noise-induced transitions in systems driven by multiplicative noise, and noise-induced transport, a phenomenon that takes place in quantum and classical coupled oscillator networks.

Transient peristaltic transport of grains in a liquid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marconati, Marco; Rault, Sharvari; Charkhi, Farshad; Burbidge, Adam; Engmann, Jan; Ramaioli, Marco

2017-06-01

Pumping suspensions and pastes has always been a significant technological challenge in a number of industrial applications ranging from food processing to mining. Peristaltic pumps have become popular to pump and/or dose complex fluids, due to their robustness. During the transport of suspensions with peristaltic pumps, clogging issues may arise, particularly during transient operations. That is a matter of particular concern whenever the pumping device is used intermittently to generate flow only on demand. Further understanding of the transient dynamics of such systems and of the conditions that can lead to jamming would result in more robust peristaltic pump design. To achieve these goals, an experimental setup that simplifies the statorrotor assembly of a peristaltic hose pump was used. In this setup, a roller transfers momentum to a liquid suspension, upon application of a constant load. The evolution of the velocity of the roller was recorded for different concentrations of mono-dispersed spheres of different diameters. The flow is found not to be strongly dependent on the dispersed particle volume fraction, if the size of the suspended phase is comparable with the hose diameter. Conversely, the flow is strongly slowed down when their size is small and the particle concentration is increased. These findings could help improving the design of peristaltic pumps by a more appropriate sizing, given the diameter of the hose and that of the particles to be transported.

Understanding and predicting the impact of critical dissolution variables for nifedipine immediate release capsules by multivariate data analysis.

PubMed

Mercuri, A; Pagliari, M; Baxevanis, F; Fares, R; Fotaki, N

2017-02-25

In this study the selection of in vivo predictive in vitro dissolution experimental set-ups using a multivariate analysis approach, in line with the Quality by Design (QbD) principles, is explored. The dissolution variables selected using a design of experiments (DoE) were the dissolution apparatus [USP1 apparatus (basket) and USP2 apparatus (paddle)], the rotational speed of the basket/or paddle, the operator conditions (dissolution apparatus brand and operator), the volume, the pH, and the ethanol content of the dissolution medium. The dissolution profiles of two nifedipine capsules (poorly soluble compound), under conditions mimicking the intake of the capsules with i. water, ii. orange juice and iii. an alcoholic drink (orange juice and ethanol) were analysed using multiple linear regression (MLR). Optimised dissolution set-ups, generated based on the mathematical model obtained via MLR, were used to build predicted in vitro-in vivo correlations (IVIVC). IVIVC could be achieved using physiologically relevant in vitro conditions mimicking the intake of the capsules with an alcoholic drink (orange juice and ethanol). The multivariate analysis revealed that the concentration of ethanol used in the in vitro dissolution experiments (47% v/v) can be lowered to less than 20% v/v, reflecting recently found physiological conditions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Monitoring plasma treatment of thin films by surface plasmon resonance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laha, Ranjit; Manivannan, A.; Kasiviswanathan, S.

2014-03-01

We report the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) measurements during plasma treatment of thin films by an indigenously designed setup. From the measurements on Al (6.3 nm)/Ag (38 nm) bi-layer at a pressure of 0.02 mbar, the SPR position was found to be shifted by ˜20° after a plasma treatment of ˜7 h. The formation of oxide layers during plasma oxidation was confirmed by glancing angle x-ray diffraction (GXRD) measurements. Combined analysis of GXRD and SPR data confirmed that while top Al layer enables controlling plasma oxidation of Ag, the setup enables monitoring the same. The setup designed is a first of its kind for in situ SPR studies where creation of low pressure is a prerequisite.

Monitoring plasma treatment of thin films by surface plasmon resonance.

PubMed

Laha, Ranjit; Manivannan, A; Kasiviswanathan, S

2014-03-01

We report the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) measurements during plasma treatment of thin films by an indigenously designed setup. From the measurements on Al (6.3 nm)/Ag (38 nm) bi-layer at a pressure of 0.02 mbar, the SPR position was found to be shifted by ~20° after a plasma treatment of ~7 h. The formation of oxide layers during plasma oxidation was confirmed by glancing angle x-ray diffraction (GXRD) measurements. Combined analysis of GXRD and SPR data confirmed that while top Al layer enables controlling plasma oxidation of Ag, the setup enables monitoring the same. The setup designed is a first of its kind for in situ SPR studies where creation of low pressure is a prerequisite.

Development of a gas-pressurized high-pressure μSR setup at the RIKEN-RAL Muon Facility

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watanabe, I.; Ishii, Y.; Kawamata, T.; Suzuki, T.; Pratt, F. L.; Done, R.; Chowdhury, M.; Goodway, C.; Dreyer, J.; Smith, C.; Southern, M.

2009-04-01

The development and testing of a gas-pressurized μSR setup for the RIKEN-RAL Muon Facility is reported. In collaboration with the high-pressure group of the ISIS Facility at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, a gas-pressurized setup for a pulsed muon beam at the RIKEN-RAL Muon Facility has been constructed in 2008. The sample is pressurized by helium gas and the designed maximum pressure is 6.4 kbar. The high-pressure cell can be cooled down to 2 K using an existing cryostat. Tests were made injecting the double-pulsed muon beam into a high-purity sample of Sn powder, which confirmed that the maximum pressure achieved at 2 K was close to the designed pressure.

Experimental Evaluation of the Thermal Performance of a Water Shield for a Surface Power Reactor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pearson, J. Boise; Stewart, Eric T.; Reid, Robert S.

2007-01-01

A water based shielding system is being investigated for use on initial lunar surface power systems. The use of water may lower overall cost (as compared to development cost for other materials) and simplify operations in the setup and handling. The thermal hydraulic performance of the shield is of significant interest. The mechanism for transferring heat through the shield is natural convection. Natural convection in a representative lunar surface reactor shield design is evaluated at various power levels in the Water Shield Testbed (WST) at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center. The experimental data from the WST is used to anchor a CFD model. Performance of a water shield on the lunar surface is then predicted by CFD models anchored to test data. The accompanying viewgraph presentation includes the following topics: 1) Testbed Configuration; 2) Core Heater Placement and Instrumentation; 3) Thermocouple Placement; 4) Core Thermocouple Placement; 5) Outer Tank Thermocouple Placement; 6) Integrated Testbed; 7) Methodology; 8) Experimental Results: Core Temperatures; 9) Experimental Results; Outer Tank Temperatures; 10) CFD Modeling; 11) CFD Model: Anchored to Experimental Results (1-g); 12) CFD MOdel: Prediction for 1/6-g; and 13) CFD Model: Comparison of 1-g to 1/6-g.

Elastic modulus and thermal stress in coating during heat cycling with different substrate shapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gaona, Daniel; Valarezo, Alfredo

2015-09-01

The elastic modulus of a deposit ( E d) can be obtained by monitoring the temperature (Δ T) and curvature (Δ k) of a one-side coated long plate, namely, a onedimensional (1D) deformation model. The aim of this research is to design an experimental setup that proves whether a 1D deformation model can be scaled for complex geometries. The setup includes a laser displacement sensor mounted on a robotic arm capable of scanning a specimen surface and measuring its deformation. The reproducibility of the results is verified by comparing the present results with Stony Brook University Laboratory's results. The Δ k-Δ T slope error is less than 8%, and the E d estimation error is close to 2%. These values reveal the repeatability of the experiments. Several samples fabricated with aluminum as the substrate and 100MXC nanowire (Fe and Cr alloy) as the deposit are analyzed and compared with those in finite element (FE) simulations. The linear elastic behavior of 1D (flat long plate) and 2D (squared plate) specimens during heating/cooling cycles is demonstrated by the high linearity of all Δ k-Δ T curves (over 97%). The E d values are approximately equal for 1D and 2D analyses, with a median of 96 GPa and standard deviation of 2 GPa. The correspondence between the experimental and simulated results for the 1D and 2D specimens reveals that deformation and thermal stress in coated specimens can be predicted regardless of specimen geometry through FE modeling and by using the experimental value of E d. An example of a turbine-bladeshaped substrate is presented to validate the approach.

Experimental assessment of precision and accuracy of radiostereometric analysis for the determination of polyethylene wear in a total hip replacement model.

PubMed

Bragdon, Charles R; Malchau, Henrik; Yuan, Xunhua; Perinchief, Rebecca; Kärrholm, Johan; Börlin, Niclas; Estok, Daniel M; Harris, William H

2002-07-01

The purpose of this study was to develop and test a phantom model based on actual total hip replacement (THR) components to simulate the true penetration of the femoral head resulting from polyethylene wear. This model was used to study both the accuracy and the precision of radiostereometric analysis, RSA, in measuring wear. We also used this model to evaluate optimum tantalum bead configuration for this particular cup design when used in a clinical setting. A physical model of a total hip replacement (a phantom) was constructed which could simulate progressive, three-dimensional (3-D) penetration of the femoral head into the polyethylene component of a THR. Using a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) the positioning of the femoral head using the phantom was measured to be accurate to within 7 microm. The accuracy and precision of an RSA analysis system was determined from five repeat examinations of the phantom using various experimental set-ups of the phantom. The accuracy of the radiostereometric analysis, in this optimal experimental set-up studied was 33 microm for the medial direction, 22 microm for the superior direction, 86 microm for the posterior direction and 55 microm for the resultant 3-D vector length. The corresponding precision at the 95% confidence interval of the test results for repositioning the phantom five times, measured 8.4 microm for the medial direction, 5.5 microm for the superior direction, 16.0 microm for the posterior direction, and 13.5 microm for the resultant 3-D vector length. This in vitro model is proposed as a useful tool for developing a standard for the evaluation of radiostereometric and other radiographic methods used to measure in vivo wear.

CMOS based capacitance to digital converter circuit for MEMS sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rotake, D. R.; Darji, A. D.

2018-02-01

Most of the MEMS cantilever based system required costly instruments for characterization, processing and also has large experimental setups which led to non-portable device. So there is a need of low cost, highly sensitive, high speed and portable digital system. The proposed Capacitance to Digital Converter (CDC) interfacing circuit converts capacitance to digital domain which can be easily processed. Recent demand microcantilever deflection is part per trillion ranges which change the capacitance in 1-10 femto farad (fF) range. The entire CDC circuit is designed using CMOS 250nm technology. Design of CDC circuit consists of a D-latch and two oscillators, namely Sensor controlled oscillator (SCO) and digitally controlled oscillator (DCO). The D-latch is designed using transmission gate based MUX for power optimization. A CDC design of 7-stage, 9-stage and 11-stage tested for 1-18 fF and simulated using mentor graphics Eldo tool with parasitic. Since the proposed design does not use resistance component, the total power dissipation is reduced to 2.3621 mW for CDC designed using 9-stage SCO and DCO.

The range of attraction for light traps catching Culicoides biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae)

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Culicoides are vectors of e.g. bluetongue virus and Schmallenberg virus in northern Europe. Light trapping is an important tool for detecting the presence and quantifying the abundance of vectors in the field. Until now, few studies have investigated the range of attraction of light traps. Methods Here we test a previously described mathematical model (Model I) and two novel models for the attraction of vectors to light traps (Model II and III). In Model I, Culicoides fly to the nearest trap from within a fixed range of attraction. In Model II Culicoides fly towards areas with greater light intensity, and in Model III Culicoides evaluate light sources in the field of view and fly towards the strongest. Model II and III incorporated the directionally dependent light field created around light traps with fluorescent light tubes. All three models were fitted to light trap collections obtained from two novel experimental setups in the field where traps were placed in different configurations. Results Results showed that overlapping ranges of attraction of neighboring traps extended the shared range of attraction. Model I did not fit data from any of the experimental setups. Model II could only fit data from one of the setups, while Model III fitted data from both experimental setups. Conclusions The model with the best fit, Model III, indicates that Culicoides continuously evaluate the light source direction and intensity. The maximum range of attraction of a single 4W CDC light trap was estimated to be approximately 15.25 meters. The attraction towards light traps is different from the attraction to host animals and thus light trap catches may not represent the vector species and numbers attracted to hosts. PMID:23497628

fMRI brain mapping during motion capture and FES induced motor tasks: signal to noise ratio assessment.

PubMed

Gandolla, Marta; Ferrante, Simona; Casellato, Claudia; Ferrigno, Giancarlo; Molteni, Franco; Martegani, Alberto; Frattini, Tiziano; Pedrocchi, Alessandra

2011-10-01

Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) is a well known clinical rehabilitation procedure, however the neural mechanisms that underlie this treatment at Central Nervous System (CNS) level are still not completely understood. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a suitable tool to investigate effects of rehabilitative treatments on brain plasticity. Moreover, monitoring the effective executed movement is needed to correctly interpret activation maps, most of all in neurological patients where required motor tasks could be only partially accomplished. The proposed experimental set-up includes a 1.5 T fMRI scanner, a motion capture system to acquire kinematic data, and an electro-stimulation device. The introduction of metallic devices and of stimulation current in the MRI room could affect fMRI acquisitions so as to prevent a reliable activation maps analysis. What we are interested in is that the Blood Oxygenation Level Dependent (BOLD) signal, marker of neural activity, could be detected within a given experimental condition and set-up. In this paper we assess temporal Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) as image quality index. BOLD signal change is about 1-2% as revealed by a 1.5 T scanner. This work demonstrates that, with this innovative set-up, in the main cortical sensorimotor regions 1% BOLD signal change can be detected at least in the 93% of the sub-volumes, and almost 100% of the sub-volumes are suitable for 2% signal change detection. The integrated experimental set-up will therefore allows to detect FES induced movements fMRI maps simultaneously with kinematic acquisitions so as to investigate FES-based rehabilitation treatments contribution at CNS level. Copyright © 2011 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The range of attraction for light traps catching Culicoides biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae).

PubMed

Kirkeby, Carsten; Græsbøll, Kaare; Stockmarr, Anders; Christiansen, Lasse E; Bødker, René

2013-03-15

Culicoides are vectors of e.g. bluetongue virus and Schmallenberg virus in northern Europe. Light trapping is an important tool for detecting the presence and quantifying the abundance of vectors in the field. Until now, few studies have investigated the range of attraction of light traps. Here we test a previously described mathematical model (Model I) and two novel models for the attraction of vectors to light traps (Model II and III). In Model I, Culicoides fly to the nearest trap from within a fixed range of attraction. In Model II Culicoides fly towards areas with greater light intensity, and in Model III Culicoides evaluate light sources in the field of view and fly towards the strongest. Model II and III incorporated the directionally dependent light field created around light traps with fluorescent light tubes. All three models were fitted to light trap collections obtained from two novel experimental setups in the field where traps were placed in different configurations. Results showed that overlapping ranges of attraction of neighboring traps extended the shared range of attraction. Model I did not fit data from any of the experimental setups. Model II could only fit data from one of the setups, while Model III fitted data from both experimental setups. The model with the best fit, Model III, indicates that Culicoides continuously evaluate the light source direction and intensity. The maximum range of attraction of a single 4W CDC light trap was estimated to be approximately 15.25 meters. The attraction towards light traps is different from the attraction to host animals and thus light trap catches may not represent the vector species and numbers attracted to hosts.

Exposure setup to study potential adverse effects at GSM 1800 and UMTS frequencies on the auditory systems of rats.

PubMed

Lopresto, V; Pinto, R; De Vita, A; Mancini, S; Galloni, P; Marino, C; Ravazzani, P; Lovisolo, G A

2007-01-01

To investigate possible biological effects of exposure to electromagnetic (EM) fields at the frequencies of global system for mobile communication (GSM) 1800 system and universal mobile telecommunication system (UMTS) on the auditory system of rats, an exposure setup for in vivo experiments is presented. The study was carried out in the framework of two European research projects. The target of the investigation was the cochlea. A dosimetric study was performed, both numerically and through direct measurements, to assess the interaction of the radiated fields and the dose distribution in the biological target. For the local exposure of rats, a loop antenna operating at the frequency bands of interest was designed, realised and characterised through numerical and experimental dosimetric procedures. Moreover, an exposure apparatus was set up, consisting of three arrays of four loop antennas, placed on three levels, thus allowing simultaneous exposure of 12 rats to give statistical power to the experiments. To isolate the exposure arrays, the setup was assembled by a wooden rack with EM field absorbing panels, inserted among the levels and at the four sides of the rack. Isolation was verified by direct measurements. Two exposure arrays were simultaneously supplied, whereas the third one was used for sham exposure. Blind exposure was achieved through a black box, hiding physical connections to the microwave power supply. During exposure sessions, rats were restrained in special plastic jigs for repeatable positioning, thus assuring the fixed level of dose in the target.

Time-lapse recordings of human corneal epithelial healing.

PubMed

Hardarson, Thorir; Hanson, Charles; Claesson, Margareta; Stenevi, Ulf

2004-04-01

The aim of this study was to design an experimental set-up for the study of human corneal epithelial wound healing in a controlled in vitro situation. A time-lapse set-up was used. This allowed for pictures to be captured with a magnification ranging from x 80 to x 1800. Pictures were captured at 1-min intervals during the observation period, which lasted up to 4 days. Human corneal tissue was obtained from the Eye Bank or from surgery. A small, rounded lesion was produced in the corneal epithelium with a miniature drill. The specimens were placed in a mini-incubator; the camera focused on the epithelial lesion and continuously observed using the time-lapse set-up. The healing process of human corneal epithelium could be followed for several days. The initial healing response could be divided into a slow, a rapid and a consolidating phase. The first two phases lasted about 12 hours, and by then, epithelial cells covered the lesion. Depending on the origin of the tissue and the placement of the lesion, variations in the healing response could be seen. The time-lapse technique makes it possible to study epithelial wound healing over time at the cellular level. Data collected in this way can fill the gap between in vivo studies, where, by nature, human wound healing studies are restricted, and cell culture techniques, where cellular responses in many cases differ from the in vivo situation.

Establishment of a new pull-out strength testing method to quantify early osseointegration-An experimental pilot study.

PubMed

Nonhoff, J; Moest, T; Schmitt, Christian Martin; Weisel, T; Bauer, S; Schlegel, K A

2015-12-01

The animal study aims to evaluate a new experimental model for measuring sole the influence of the surface characteristics independent from implant macro-design on the level of osseointegration by registering the pull-out strength needed for removal of experimental devices with different surfaces from artificial defects. Seventy-two test bodies (36 with the FRIADENT(®) plus surface, 36 with the P15/HAp biofunctionalized surface) were inserted in six adult domestic pigs with artificial calvarial defects. The experimental devices were designed to fit in the defects leaving a gap between the test body and the local bone. After 21 days of healing, the animals were sacrificed and the test bodies were pulled out with a standardised reproducible pull-out device measuring the pull-out strength. The pull-out strength for both groups was compared. Twenty-one days after insertion a mean force of 412 ± 142 N for the P15/HAp group and 183 ± 105 N for the FRIADENT(®) plus group was measured for the removal of the specimens from the calvarial bone. The difference between the groups was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). The experimental set-up seems to be a suitable method when measuring the impact of implant surfaces on the early stage of osseointegration. Copyright © 2015 European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The intensive DT neutron generator of TU Dresden

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klix, Axel; DÖring, Toralf; Domula, Alexander; Zuber, Kai

2018-01-01

TU Dresden operates an accelerator-based intensive DT neutron generator. Experimental activities comprise investigation into material activation and decay, neutron and photon transport in matter and R&D work on radiation detectors for harsh environments. The intense DT neutron generator is capable to produce a maximum of 1012 n/s. The neutron source is a solid-type water-cooled tritium target based on a titanium matrix on a copper carrier. The neutron yield at a typical deuteron beam current of 1 mA is of the order of 1011 n/s in 4Π. A pneumatic sample transport system is available for short-time irradiations and connected to wo high-purity germanium detector spectrometers for the measurement of induced activities. The overall design of the experimental hall with the neutron generator allows a flexible setup of experiments including the possibility of investigating larger structures and cooled samples or samples at high temperatures.

Experimental demonstration of bandwidth on demand (BoD) provisioning based on time scheduling in software-defined multi-domain optical networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Yongli; Li, Yajie; Wang, Xinbo; Chen, Bowen; Zhang, Jie

2016-09-01

A hierarchical software-defined networking (SDN) control architecture is designed for multi-domain optical networks with the Open Daylight (ODL) controller. The OpenFlow-based Control Virtual Network Interface (CVNI) protocol is deployed between the network orchestrator and the domain controllers. Then, a dynamic bandwidth on demand (BoD) provisioning solution is proposed based on time scheduling in software-defined multi-domain optical networks (SD-MDON). Shared Risk Link Groups (SRLG)-disjoint routing schemes are adopted to separate each tenant for reliability. The SD-MDON testbed is built based on the proposed hierarchical control architecture. Then the proposed time scheduling-based BoD (Ts-BoD) solution is experimentally demonstrated on the testbed. The performance of the Ts-BoD solution is evaluated with respect to blocking probability, resource utilization, and lightpath setup latency.

Snapshot linear-Stokes imaging spectropolarimeter using division-of-focal-plane polarimetry and integral field spectroscopy.

PubMed

Mu, Tingkui; Pacheco, Shaun; Chen, Zeyu; Zhang, Chunmin; Liang, Rongguang

2017-02-13

In this paper, the design and experimental demonstration of a snapshot linear-Stokes imaging spectropolarimeter (SLSIS) is presented. The SLSIS, which is based on division-of-focal-plane polarimetry with four parallel linear polarization channels and integral field spectroscopy with numerous slit dispersive paths, has no moving parts and provides video-rate Stokes-vector hyperspectral datacubes. It does not need any scanning in the spectral, spatial or polarization dimension and offers significant advantages of rapid reconstruction without heavy computation during post-processing. The principle and the experimental setup of the SLSIS are described in detail. The image registration, Stokes spectral reconstruction and calibration procedures are included, and the system is validated using measurements of tungsten light and a static scene. The SLSIS's snapshot ability to resolve polarization spectral signatures is demonstrated using measurements of a dynamic scene.

Snapshot linear-Stokes imaging spectropolarimeter using division-of-focal-plane polarimetry and integral field spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Mu, Tingkui; Pacheco, Shaun; Chen, Zeyu; Zhang, Chunmin; Liang, Rongguang

2017-01-01

In this paper, the design and experimental demonstration of a snapshot linear-Stokes imaging spectropolarimeter (SLSIS) is presented. The SLSIS, which is based on division-of-focal-plane polarimetry with four parallel linear polarization channels and integral field spectroscopy with numerous slit dispersive paths, has no moving parts and provides video-rate Stokes-vector hyperspectral datacubes. It does not need any scanning in the spectral, spatial or polarization dimension and offers significant advantages of rapid reconstruction without heavy computation during post-processing. The principle and the experimental setup of the SLSIS are described in detail. The image registration, Stokes spectral reconstruction and calibration procedures are included, and the system is validated using measurements of tungsten light and a static scene. The SLSIS’s snapshot ability to resolve polarization spectral signatures is demonstrated using measurements of a dynamic scene. PMID:28191819

Validation of Slosh Model Parameters and Anti-Slosh Baffle Designs of Propellant Tanks by Using Lateral Slosh Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perez, Jose G.; Parks, Russel, A.; Lazor, Daniel R.

2012-01-01

The slosh dynamics of propellant tanks can be represented by an equivalent mass-pendulum-dashpot mechanical model. The parameters of this equivalent model, identified as slosh mechanical model parameters, are slosh frequency, slosh mass, and pendulum hinge point location. They can be obtained by both analysis and testing for discrete fill levels. Anti-slosh baffles are usually needed in propellant tanks to control the movement of the fluid inside the tank. Lateral slosh testing, involving both random excitation testing and free-decay testing, are performed to validate the slosh mechanical model parameters and the damping added to the fluid by the anti-slosh baffles. Traditional modal analysis procedures were used to extract the parameters from the experimental data. Test setup of sub-scale tanks will be described. A comparison between experimental results and analysis will be presented.

Validation of Slosh Model Parameters and Anti-Slosh Baffle Designs of Propellant Tanks by Using Lateral Slosh Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perez, Jose G.; Parks, Russel A.; Lazor, Daniel R.

2012-01-01

The slosh dynamics of propellant tanks can be represented by an equivalent pendulum-mass mechanical model. The parameters of this equivalent model, identified as slosh model parameters, are slosh mass, slosh mass center of gravity, slosh frequency, and smooth-wall damping. They can be obtained by both analysis and testing for discrete fill heights. Anti-slosh baffles are usually needed in propellant tanks to control the movement of the fluid inside the tank. Lateral slosh testing, involving both random testing and free-decay testing, are performed to validate the slosh model parameters and the damping added to the fluid by the anti-slosh baffles. Traditional modal analysis procedures are used to extract the parameters from the experimental data. Test setup of sub-scale test articles of cylindrical and spherical shapes will be described. A comparison between experimental results and analysis will be presented.

Experimental study on vertical static stiffnesses of polycal wire rope isolators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balaji, P. S.; Moussa, Leblouba; Khandoker, Noman; Yuk Shyh, Ting; Rahman, M. E.; Hieng Ho, Lau

2017-07-01

Wire rope isolator is one of the most effective isolation system that can be used to attenuate the vibration disturbances and shocks during the operation of machineries. This paper presents the results of investigation on static elastic stiffnesses (both in tension and in compression) of Polycal Wire Rope Isolator (PWRI) under quasi-static monotonic loading conditions. It also studied effect of variations in height and width of PWRI on its static stiffnesses. Suitable experimental setup was designed and manufactured to meet the test conditions. The results show that their elastic stiffnesses for both tension and compression loading conditions are highly influenced by their geometric dimensions. It is found that their compressive stiffness reduced by 55% for an increment of 20% in their height to width ratio. Therefore, the stiffness of PWRI can be fine-tuned by controlling their dimensions according to the requirements of the application.

Photoacoustic Spectroscopy Analysis of Traditional Chinese Medicine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Lu; Zhao, Bin-xing; Xiao, Hong-tao; Tong, Rong-sheng; Gao, Chun-ming

2013-09-01

Chinese medicine is a historic cultural legacy of China. It has made a significant contribution to medicine and healthcare for generations. The development of Chinese herbal medicine analysis is emphasized by the Chinese pharmaceutical industry. This study has carried out the experimental analysis of ten kinds of Chinese herbal powder including Fritillaria powder, etc., based on the photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) method. First, a photoacoustic spectroscopy system was designed and constructed, especially a highly sensitive solid photoacoustic cell was established. Second, the experimental setup was verified through the characteristic emission spectrum of the light source, obtained by using carbon as a sample in the photoacoustic cell. Finally, as the photoacoustic spectroscopy analysis of Fritillaria, etc., was completed, the specificity of the Chinese herb medicine analysis was verified. This study shows that the PAS can provide a valid, highly sensitive analytical method for the specificity of Chinese herb medicine without preparing and damaging samples.

Free-space wavelength-multiplexed optical scanner demonstration.

PubMed

Yaqoob, Zahid; Riza, Nabeel A

2002-09-10

Experimental demonstration of a no-moving-parts free-space wavelength-multiplexed optical scanner (W-MOS) is presented. With fast tunable lasers or optical filters and planar wavelength dispersive elements such as diffraction gratings, this microsecond-speed scanner enables large several-centimeter apertures for subdegree angular scans. The proposed W-MOS design incorporates a unique optical amplifier and variable optical attenuator combination that enables the calibration and modulation of the scanner response, leading to any desired scanned laser beam power shaping. The experimental setup uses a tunable laser centered at 1560 nm and a 600-grooves/mm blazed reflection grating to accomplish an angular scan of 12.92 degrees as the source is tuned over an 80-nm bandwidth. The values for calculated maximum optical beam divergance, required wavelength resolution, beam-pointing accuracy, and measured scanner insertion loss are 1.076 mrad, 0.172 nm, 0.06 mrad, and 4.88 dB, respectively.

A dynamic method to forecast the wheel slip for antilock braking system and its experimental evaluation.

PubMed

Oniz, Yesim; Kayacan, Erdal; Kaynak, Okyay

2009-04-01

The control of an antilock braking system (ABS) is a difficult problem due to its strongly nonlinear and uncertain characteristics. To overcome this difficulty, the integration of gray-system theory and sliding-mode control is proposed in this paper. This way, the prediction capabilities of the former and the robustness of the latter are combined to regulate optimal wheel slip depending on the vehicle forward velocity. The design approach described is novel, considering that a point, rather than a line, is used as the sliding control surface. The control algorithm is derived and subsequently tested on a quarter vehicle model. Encouraged by the simulation results indicating the ability to overcome the stated difficulties with fast convergence, experimental results are carried out on a laboratory setup. The results presented indicate the potential of the approach in handling difficult real-time control problems.

Ultra-Precision Measurement and Control of Angle Motion in Piezo-Based Platforms Using Strain Gauge Sensors and a Robust Composite Controller

PubMed Central

Liu, Lei; Bai, Yu-Guang; Zhang, Da-Li; Wu, Zhi-Gang

2013-01-01

The measurement and control strategy of a piezo-based platform by using strain gauge sensors (SGS) and a robust composite controller is investigated in this paper. First, the experimental setup is constructed by using a piezo-based platform, SGS sensors, an AD5435 platform and two voltage amplifiers. Then, the measurement strategy to measure the tip/tilt angles accurately in the order of sub-μrad is presented. A comprehensive composite control strategy design to enhance the tracking accuracy with a novel driving principle is also proposed. Finally, an experiment is presented to validate the measurement and control strategy. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed measurement and control strategy provides accurate angle motion with a root mean square (RMS) error of 0.21 μrad, which is approximately equal to the noise level. PMID:23860316

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Weizhao; Zhang, Zixuan; Lu, Jie

Carbon fiber composites have received growing attention because of their high performance. One economic method to manufacturing the composite parts is the sequence of forming followed by the compression molding process. In this sequence, the preforming procedure forms the prepreg, which is the composite with the uncured resin, to the product geometry while the molding process cures the resin. Slip between different prepreg layers is observed in the preforming step and this paper reports a method to characterize the properties of the interaction between different prepreg layers, which is critical to predictive modeling and design optimization. An experimental setup wasmore » established to evaluate the interactions at various industrial production conditions. The experimental results were analyzed for an in-depth understanding about how the temperature, the relative sliding speed, and the fiber orientation affect the tangential interaction between two prepreg layers. The interaction factors measured from these experiments will be implemented in the computational preforming program.« less

Observation of non-classical correlations in sequential measurements of photon polarization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzuki, Yutaro; Iinuma, Masataka; Hofmann, Holger F.

2016-10-01

A sequential measurement of two non-commuting quantum observables results in a joint probability distribution for all output combinations that can be explained in terms of an initial joint quasi-probability of the non-commuting observables, modified by the resolution errors and back-action of the initial measurement. Here, we show that the error statistics of a sequential measurement of photon polarization performed at different measurement strengths can be described consistently by an imaginary correlation between the statistics of resolution and back-action. The experimental setup was designed to realize variable strength measurements with well-controlled imaginary correlation between the statistical errors caused by the initial measurement of diagonal polarizations, followed by a precise measurement of the horizontal/vertical polarization. We perform the experimental characterization of an elliptically polarized input state and show that the same complex joint probability distribution is obtained at any measurement strength.

Modeling and analysis of a resonant nanosystem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Calvert, Scott L.

The majority of investigations into nanoelectromechanical resonators focus on a single area of the resonator's function. This focus varies from the development of a model for a beam's vibration, to the modeling of electrostatic forces, to a qualitative explanation of experimentally-obtained currents. Despite these efforts, there remains a gap between these works, and the level of sophistication needed to truly design nanoresonant systems for efficient commercial use. Towards this end, a comprehensive system model for both a nanobeam resonator and its related experimental setup is proposed. Furthermore, a simulation arrangement is suggested as a method for facilitating the study of the system-level behavior of these devices in a variety of cases that could not be easily obtained experimentally or analytically. The dynamics driving the nanoresonator's motion, as well as the electrical interactions influencing the forcing and output of the system, are modeled, experimentally validated, and studied. The model seeks to develop both a simple circuit representation of the nanoresonator, and to create a mathematical system that can be used to predict and interpret the observed behavior. Due to the assumptions used to simplify the model to a point of reasonable comprehension, the model is most accurate for small beam deflections near the first eigenmode of the beam. The process and results of an experimental investigation are documented, and compared with a circuit simulation modeling the full test system. The comparison qualitatively proves the functionality of the model, while a numerical analysis serves to validate the functionality and setup of the circuit simulation. The use of the simulation enables a much broader investigation of both the electrical behavior and the physical device's dynamics. It is used to complement an assessment of the tuning behavior of the system's linear natural frequency by demonstrating the tuning behavior of the full nonlinear response. The simulation is used to demonstrate the difficulties with the contemporary mixing approach to experimental data collection and to complete a variety of case studies investigating the use of the nanoresonator systems in practical applications, such as signal filtering. Many of these case studies would be difficult to complete analytically, but results are quickly achieved through the use of the simulation.

Chromophore Poling in Thin Films of Organic Glasses. 2. Two-Electrode Corona Discharge Setup

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vilitis, O.; Muzikante, I.; Rutkis, M.; Vembris, A.

2012-01-01

In Part 1 of the article we provided description of the corona discharge physics and overview of the methods used for corona poling in thin organic films. Subsequent sections describe comparatively simple technical methods for poling the organic nonlinear optical polymers using a two-electrode (point-to-plate or wire-to-plate) technique. The polarization build-up was studied by the DC positive corona method for poling the nonlinear optical (NLO) polymers. The experimental setup provides the corona discharge current from 0.5 μA up to 3 μA by applying 3 kV - 12 kV voltage to the corona electrode and makes possible selection among the types of corona electrodes (needle, multi-needle, wire, etc.). The results of experimental testing of the poling setup show that at fixed optimal operational parameters of poling - the sample orientation temperature and the discharge current - the corona charging of polymeric materials can successfully be performed applying the two-electrode technique. To study the dynamics of both poling and charge transport processes the three-electrode charging system - a corona triode - should be applied.

General Analytical Schemes for the Characterization of Pectin-Based Edible Gelled Systems

PubMed Central

Haghighi, Maryam; Rezaei, Karamatollah

2012-01-01

Pectin-based gelled systems have gained increasing attention for the design of newly developed food products. For this reason, the characterization of such formulas is a necessity in order to present scientific data and to introduce an appropriate finished product to the industry. Various analytical techniques are available for the evaluation of the systems formulated on the basis of pectin and the designed gel. In this paper, general analytical approaches for the characterization of pectin-based gelled systems were categorized into several subsections including physicochemical analysis, visual observation, textural/rheological measurement, microstructural image characterization, and psychorheological evaluation. Three-dimensional trials to assess correlations among microstructure, texture, and taste were also discussed. Practical examples of advanced objective techniques including experimental setups for small and large deformation rheological measurements and microstructural image analysis were presented in more details. PMID:22645484

Model of dissolution in the framework of tissue engineering and drug delivery.

PubMed

Sanz-Herrera, J A; Soria, L; Reina-Romo, E; Torres, Y; Boccaccini, A R

2018-05-22

Dissolution phenomena are ubiquitously present in biomaterials in many different fields. Despite the advantages of simulation-based design of biomaterials in medical applications, additional efforts are needed to derive reliable models which describe the process of dissolution. A phenomenologically based model, available for simulation of dissolution in biomaterials, is introduced in this paper. The model turns into a set of reaction-diffusion equations implemented in a finite element numerical framework. First, a parametric analysis is conducted in order to explore the role of model parameters on the overall dissolution process. Then, the model is calibrated and validated versus a straightforward but rigorous experimental setup. Results show that the mathematical model macroscopically reproduces the main physicochemical phenomena that take place in the tests, corroborating its usefulness for design of biomaterials in the tissue engineering and drug delivery research areas.

Investigation of solid nitrogen for cryogenic thermal storage in superconducting cable terminations for enhanced resiliency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suttell, N.; Zhang, Z.; Kweon, J.; Nes, T.; Kim, C. H.; Pamidi, S.; Ordonez, J. C.

2017-12-01

Low heat capacity of helium makes the helium gas cooled high temperature superconducting (HTS) power devices susceptible to large temperature rises during unexpected heat loads such as electrical faults or cryogenic system failures. Cryogenic thermal storage in the form of solid nitrogen designed in the terminations is explored as a means to increase the thermal stability and operational time of HTS power cables in the event of unexpected heat loads. An external tank containing activated charcoal is used as an adsorption buffer tank for nitrogen gas. The use of activated charcoal minimizes the volume of the buffer tank and prevents pressure rises during melting and boiling of the solid nitrogen. Calculations of the cryogenic thermal storage needed and a description of the experimental setup used to understand the design constraints are discussed.

New optical scheme for a polarimetric-based glucose sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ansari, Rafat R.; Bockle, Stefan; Rovati, Luigi

2004-01-01

A new optical scheme to detect glucose concentration in the aqueous humor of the eye is presented. The ultimate aim is to apply this technique in designing a new instrument for, routinely and frequently, noninvasively monitoring blood glucose levels in diabetic patients without contact (no index matching) between the eye and the instrument. The optical scheme exploits the Brewster reflection of circularly polarized light off of the lens of the eye. Theoretically, this reflected linearly polarized light on its way to the detector is expected to rotate its state of polarization, owing to the presence of glucose molecules in the aqueous humor of a patient's eye. An experimental laboratory setup based on this scheme was designed and tested by measuring a range of known concentrations of glucose solutions dissolved in water. (c) 2004 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers.

Motion control of rigid bodies in SE(3)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roza, Ashton

This thesis investigates the control of motion for a general class of vehicles that rotate and translate in three-space, and are propelled by a thrust vector which has fixed direction in body frame. The thesis addresses the problems of path following and position control. For path following, a feedback linearization controller is presented that makes the vehicle follow an arbitrary closed curve while simultaneously allowing the designer to specify the velocity profile of the vehicle on the path and its heading. For position control, a two-stage approach is presented that decouples position control from attitude control, allowing for a modular design and yielding almost global asymptotic stability of any desired hovering equilibrium. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified both in simulation and experimentally by means of a hardware-in-the-loop setup emulating a co-axial helicopter.

Hollow Core Bragg Waveguide Design and Fabrication for Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramanan, Janahan

Raman spectroscopy is a widely used technique to unambiguously ascertain the chemical composition of a sample. The caveat with this technique is its extremely weak optical cross-section, making it difficult to measure Raman signal with standard optical setups. In this thesis, a novel hollow core Bragg Reflection Waveguide was designed to simultaneously increase the generation and collection of Raman scattered photons. A robust fabrication process of this waveguide was developed employing flip-chip bonding methods to securely seal the hollow core channel. The waveguide air-core propagation loss was experimentally measured to be 0.17 dB/cm, and the Raman sensitivity limit was measured to be 3 mmol/L for glycerol solution. The waveguide was also shown to enhance Raman modes of standard household aerosols that could not be seen with other devices.

Note: 4-bounce neutron polarizer for reflectometry applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nagy, B.; Merkel, D. G.; Jakab, L.; Füzi, J.; Veres, T.; Bottyán, L.

2018-05-01

A neutron polarizer using four successive reflections on m = 2.5 supermirrors was built and installed at the GINA neutron reflectometer at the Budapest Neutron Centre. This simple setup exhibits 99.6% polarizing efficiency with 80% transmitted intensity of the selected polarization state. Due to the geometry, the higher harmonics in the incident beam are filtered out, while the optical axis of the beam remains intact for easy mounting and dismounting the device in an existing experimental setup.

Stable thermophoretic trapping of generic particles at low pressures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fung, Long Fung Frankie

2017-04-01

We demonstrate levitation and three-dimensionally stable trapping of a wide variety of particles in medium vacuum through thermophoresis. Typical sizes of the trapped particles are between 10 μm and 1 mm; air pressure is between 1 and 10 Torr. We describe the experimental setup used to produce the temperature gradient, as well as our procedure for introducing particles into the experimental setup. To determine the levitation force and test various theoretical models, we examine the levitation heights of spherical polyethylene spheres under various conditions. A good agreement with two theoretical models is concluded. Our system offers a platform to discover various thermophoretic phenomena and to simulate dynamics of interacting many-body systems in a microgravity environment. NSF MRSEC Grant No. DMR-1420709.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bahena, A.; Villasenor, L.

We describe a simple experimental setup to measure the rate of arrival of muons at the surface of the Earth by using a single water Cerenkov detector and home-made electronics. We find a strong anti-correlation between the muon rates averaged over one-hour periods and the atmospheric pressure, with a measured correlation coefficient of -0.67% per hPa. After applying this correction we achieve sufficient sensitivity to observe long term (hours) variations in the averaged muon rates which are greater than 2%. Forbush decreases as big as 4% have been observed with muon detectors located at similar magnetic rigidities compared to Morelia,more » therefore our experimental setup will detect Forbush decreases as soon as the Sun enters into a more active phase.« less

Calibration of a Background Oriented Schlieren (BOS) Set-up

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Porta, David; Echeverría, Carlos; Cardoso, Hiroki; Aguayo, Alejandro; Stern, Catalina

2014-11-01

We use two materials with different known indexes of refraction to calibrate a Background Oriented Schlieren (BOS) experimental set-up, and to validate the Lorenz-Lorentz equation. BOS is used in our experiments to determine local changes of density in the shock pattern of an axisymmetric supersonic air jet. It is important to validate, in particular, the Gladstone Dale approximation (index of refraction close to one) in our experimental conditions and determine the uncertainty of our density measurements. In some cases, the index of refraction of the material is well known, but in others the density is measured and related to the displacement field. We acknowledge support from UNAM through DGAPA PAPIIT IN117712 and the Graduate Program in Mechanical Engineering.

Study on the quality and stability of compost through a Demo Compost Plant.

PubMed

Hasan, K M M; Sarkar, G; Alamgir, M; Bari, Q H; Haedrich, G

2012-11-01

This study is concerned with the performance of a Demo Compost Plant for the development of acceptable composting technology in Bangladesh. The Demo Compost Plant was setup at the adjacent area of an existing compost plant located at Khulna city in Bangladesh. Four different composting technologies were considered, where Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) were used as a raw material for composting, collected from the adjacent areas of the plant. Initially the whole composting system was conducted through two experimental setups. In the 1st setup three different types of aerators (horizontal and vertical passively aerator and forced aerator) were selected. For a necessary observation four piles, using only MSW as the input materials in the first three compost pile, the fourth one was the existing Samadhan's compost pile. Based on the analysis of the experimental findings, the horizontal passively aerated composting technique is suitable for Bangladesh as it had better performance for reducing composting period than that of the others. It was being observed from the quality parameters of compost in the both 1st and 2nd setup that as the waste directly come from kitchen, degradation rate of waste shows a positive result for reducing this waste and there is no possibility of toxic contamination, when it would be used as a soil conditioner. Though there is no significant improvement in the quality of the final product in the 2nd setup as comparing with the 1st setup but it fulfills one of the main objectives of this study is to reduce the whole composting period as well as immediate management of the increasing amount of waste and reducing load on landfill. Selfheating tests reveal that degree of stability of compost with respect to maturation period was remained in the acceptable level, which was further accelerated due to the use of organic additives. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Networked Experiments and Scientific Resource Sharing in Cooperative Knowledge Spaces

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cikic, Sabine; Jeschke, Sabina; Ludwig, Nadine; Sinha, Uwe; Thomsen, Christian

2007-01-01

Cooperative knowledge spaces create new potentials for the experimental fields in natural sciences and engineering because they enhance the accessibility of experimental setups through virtual laboratories and remote technology, opening them for collaborative and distributed usage. A concept for extending existing virtual knowledge spaces for the…

Getting Shocks: Teaching Secondary School Physics through History.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heering, Peter

2000-01-01

Uses several replicas of experimental set-ups that were originally used in electrostatic research in teaching electrostatics through history on secondary school level. Makes visible the change of the style of electrostatic experimentation that took place at the end of the 18th century. (Contains 25 references.) (ASK)

Meta-analysis as a tool to study crop productivity response to poultry litter application

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Extensive research on the use of poultry litter (PL) under different agricultural practices in the USA has shown both negative and positive effects on crop productivity (either yield or aboveground biomass). However, these experimental results are substantially dependent on the experimental set-up, ...

A water pumping control system with a programmable logic controller (PLC) and industrial wireless modules for industrial plants--an experimental setup.

PubMed

Bayindir, Ramazan; Cetinceviz, Yucel

2011-04-01

This paper describes a water pumping control system that is designed for production plants and implemented in an experimental setup in a laboratory. These plants contain harsh environments in which chemicals, vibrations or moving parts exist that could potentially damage the cabling or wires that are part of the control system. Furthermore, the data has to be transferred over paths that are accessible to the public. The control systems that it uses are a programmable logic controller (PLC) and industrial wireless local area network (IWLAN) technologies. It is implemented by a PLC, an communication processor (CP), two IWLAN modules, and a distributed input/output (I/O) module, as well as the water pump and sensors. Our system communication is based on an Industrial Ethernet and uses the standard Transport Control Protocol/Internet Protocol for parameterisation, configuration and diagnostics. The main function of the PLC is to send a digital signal to the water pump to turn it on or off, based on the tank level, using a pressure transmitter and inputs from limit switches that indicate the level of the water in the tank. This paper aims to provide a convenient solution in process plants where cabling is not possible. It also has lower installation and maintenance cost, provides reliable operation, and robust and flexible construction, suitable for industrial applications. Copyright © 2010 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Accuracy assessment of surgical planning and three-dimensional-printed patient-specific guides for orthopaedic osteotomies.

PubMed

Sys, Gwen; Eykens, Hannelore; Lenaerts, Gerlinde; Shumelinsky, Felix; Robbrecht, Cedric; Poffyn, Bart

2017-06-01

This study analyses the accuracy of three-dimensional pre-operative planning and patient-specific guides for orthopaedic osteotomies. To this end, patient-specific guides were compared to the classical freehand method in an experimental setup with saw bones in two phases. In the first phase, the effect of guide design and oscillating versus reciprocating saws was analysed. The difference between target and performed cuts was quantified by the average distance deviation and average angular deviations in the sagittal and coronal planes for the different osteotomies. The results indicated that for one model osteotomy, the use of guides resulted in a more accurate cut when compared to the freehand technique. Reciprocating saws and slot guides improved accuracy in all planes, while oscillating saws and open guides lead to larger deviations from the planned cut. In the second phase, the accuracy of transfer of the planning to the surgical field with slot guides and a reciprocating saw was assessed and compared to the classical planning and freehand cutting method. The pre-operative plan was transferred with high accuracy. Three-dimensional-printed patient-specific guides improve the accuracy of osteotomies and bony resections in an experimental setup compared to conventional freehand methods. The improved accuracy is related to (1) a detailed and qualitative pre-operative plan and (2) an accurate transfer of the planning to the operation room with patient-specific guides by an accurate guidance of the surgical tools to perform the desired cuts.

Facilitation of transscleral drug delivery by drug loaded magnetic polymeric particles.

PubMed

Mousavikhamene, Zeynab; Abdekhodaie, Mohammad J; Ahmadieh, Hamid

2017-10-01

A unique method was used to facilitate ocular drug delivery from periocular route by drug loaded magnetic sensitive particles. Injection of particles in periocular space along the eye axis followed by application of magnetic field in front of the eye would trigger the magnetic polymeric particles to move along the direction of magnetic force and reside against the outer surface of the sclera. This technique prevents removal of drug in the periocular space, observed in conventional transscleral drug delivery systems and hence higher amount of drug can enter the eye in a longer period of time. The experiments were performed by fresh human sclera and an experimental setup. Experimental setup was designed by side by side diffusion cell and hydrodynamic and thermal simulation of the posterior segment of the eye were applied. Magnetic polymeric particles were synthesized by alginate as a model polymer, iron oxide nanoparticles as a magnetic agent and diclofenac sodium as a model drug and characterized by SEM, TEM, DLS and FT-IR techniques. According to the SEM images, the size range of particles is around 60 to 800nm. The results revealed that the cumulative drug transfer from magnetic sensitive particles across the sclera improves by 70% in the presence of magnetic field. The results of this research show promising method of drug delivery to use magnetic properties to facilitate drug delivery to the back of the eye. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

The OpenPicoAmp: an open-source planar lipid bilayer amplifier for hands-on learning of neuroscience.

PubMed

Shlyonsky, Vadim; Dupuis, Freddy; Gall, David

2014-01-01

Understanding the electrical biophysical properties of the cell membrane can be difficult for neuroscience students as it relies solely on lectures of theoretical models without practical hands on experiments. To address this issue, we developed an open-source lipid bilayer amplifier, the OpenPicoAmp, which is appropriate for use in introductory courses in biophysics or neurosciences at the undergraduate level, dealing with the electrical properties of the cell membrane. The amplifier is designed using the common lithographic printed circuit board fabrication process and off-the-shelf electronic components. In addition, we propose a specific design for experimental chambers allowing the insertion of a commercially available polytetrafluoroethylene film. We provide a complete documentation allowing to build the amplifier and the experimental chamber. The students hand-out giving step-by step instructions to perform a recording is also included. Our experimental setup can be used in basic experiments in which students monitor the bilayer formation by capacitance measurement and record unitary currents produced by ionic channels like gramicidin A dimers. Used in combination with a low-cost data acquisition board this system provides a complete solution for hands-on lessons, therefore improving the effectiveness in teaching basic neurosciences or biophysics.

The OpenPicoAmp: An Open-Source Planar Lipid Bilayer Amplifier for Hands-On Learning of Neuroscience

PubMed Central

Shlyonsky, Vadim; Dupuis, Freddy; Gall, David

2014-01-01

Understanding the electrical biophysical properties of the cell membrane can be difficult for neuroscience students as it relies solely on lectures of theoretical models without practical hands on experiments. To address this issue, we developed an open-source lipid bilayer amplifier, the OpenPicoAmp, which is appropriate for use in introductory courses in biophysics or neurosciences at the undergraduate level, dealing with the electrical properties of the cell membrane. The amplifier is designed using the common lithographic printed circuit board fabrication process and off-the-shelf electronic components. In addition, we propose a specific design for experimental chambers allowing the insertion of a commercially available polytetrafluoroethylene film. We provide a complete documentation allowing to build the amplifier and the experimental chamber. The students hand-out giving step-by step instructions to perform a recording is also included. Our experimental setup can be used in basic experiments in which students monitor the bilayer formation by capacitance measurement and record unitary currents produced by ionic channels like gramicidin A dimers. Used in combination with a low-cost data acquisition board this system provides a complete solution for hands-on lessons, therefore improving the effectiveness in teaching basic neurosciences or biophysics. PMID:25251830

Investigation of pile setup (freeze) in Alabama : development of a setup prediction method and implementation into LRFD driven pile design.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-06-01

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) often uses deep foundations : consisting of driven piles, particularly in the southern half of the state, to support bridges or other : highway structures. In the fiscal year 2012, a total of 22 bridge...

Detection prospects for the Cosmic Neutrino Background using laser interferometers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Domcke, Valerie; Spinrath, Martin, E-mail: valerie.domcke@apc.univ-paris7.fr, E-mail: martin.spinrath@cts.nthu.edu.tw

The cosmic neutrino background is a key prediction of Big Bang cosmology which has not been observed yet. The movement of the earth through this neutrino bath creates a force on a pendulum, as if it were exposed to a cosmic wind. We revise here estimates for the resulting pendulum acceleration and compare it to the theoretical sensitivity of an experimental setup where the pendulum position is measured using current laser interferometer technology as employed in gravitational wave detectors. We discuss how a significant improvement of this setup can be envisaged in a micro gravity environment. The proposed setup couldmore » also function as a dark matter detector in the sub-MeV range, which currently eludes direct detection constraints.« less

Using refraction in thick glass plates for optical path length modulation in low coherence interferometry.

PubMed

Kröger, Niklas; Schlobohm, Jochen; Pösch, Andreas; Reithmeier, Eduard

2017-09-01

In Michelson interferometer setups the standard way to generate different optical path lengths between a measurement arm and a reference arm relies on expensive high precision linear stages such as piezo actuators. We present an alternative approach based on the refraction of light at optical interfaces using a cheap stepper motor with high gearing ratio to control the rotation of a glass plate. The beam path is examined and a relation between angle of rotation and change in optical path length is devised. As verification, an experimental setup is presented, and reconstruction results from a measurement standard are shown. The reconstructed step height from this setup lies within 1.25% of the expected value.

Note: Near infrared spectral and transient measurements of PbS quantum dots luminescence.

PubMed

Parfenov, P S; Litvin, A P; Ushakova, E V; Fedorov, A V; Baranov, A V; Berwick, K

2013-11-01

We describe an experimental setup for the characterization of luminescence from nanostructures. The setup is intended for steady-state and time-resolved luminescence measurements in the near-infrared region. The setup allows us to study spectral luminescence properties in the spectral range of 0.8-2.0 μm with high spectral resolution and kinetic luminescence properties between 0.8 and 1.7 μm with a time resolution of 3 ns. The capabilities of the system are illustrated by taking luminescence measurements from PbS quantum dots. We established the size dependencies of the optical properties of the PbS quantum dots over a wide spectral range. Finally, the energy transfer process was studied with a high temporal and spectral resolution.

Search for hybrid baryons with CLAS12 experimental setup

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lanza, Lucille

It is crucial to study the meson electroproduction in the kinematic region dominated by the formation of resonances. CLAS12 setup in Hall B at Jefferson Lab is particularly suitable for this task, since it is able to detect scattered electrons at low polar angles thanks to the Forward Tagger (FT) component. The process that we propose to study is ep → e'K +Λ, where the electron beam will be provided by the CEBAF accelerator with energies of 6.6, 8.8, and 11 GeV. This thesis work describes the setup and calibration of the FT calorimeter and the studies related to themore » search of hybrid baryons through the measurement of the K + Λ electroproduction cross section.« less

An electron energy loss spectrometer based streak camera for time resolved TEM measurements.

PubMed

Ali, Hasan; Eriksson, Johan; Li, Hu; Jafri, S Hassan M; Kumar, M S Sharath; Ögren, Jim; Ziemann, Volker; Leifer, Klaus

2017-05-01

We propose an experimental setup based on a streak camera approach inside an energy filter to measure time resolved properties of materials in the transmission electron microscope (TEM). In order to put in place the streak camera, a beam sweeper was built inside an energy filter. After exciting the TEM sample, the beam is swept across the CCD camera of the filter. We describe different parts of the setup at the example of a magnetic measurement. This setup is capable to acquire time resolved diffraction patterns, electron energy loss spectra (EELS) and images with total streaking times in the range between 100ns and 10μs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Detection prospects for the Cosmic Neutrino Background using laser interferometers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Domcke, Valerie; Spinrath, Martin

2017-06-01

The cosmic neutrino background is a key prediction of Big Bang cosmology which has not been observed yet. The movement of the earth through this neutrino bath creates a force on a pendulum, as if it were exposed to a cosmic wind. We revise here estimates for the resulting pendulum acceleration and compare it to the theoretical sensitivity of an experimental setup where the pendulum position is measured using current laser interferometer technology as employed in gravitational wave detectors. We discuss how a significant improvement of this setup can be envisaged in a micro gravity environment. The proposed setup could also function as a dark matter detector in the sub-MeV range, which currently eludes direct detection constraints.

Assessment of the Tensile Properties for Single Fibers

DTIC Science & Technology

2018-02-01

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 14. ABSTRACT A novel experimental test method is presented to assess the tensile properties...distribution is unlimited. iii Contents List of Figures iv List of Tables v Acknowledgments vi 1. Introduction 1 2. Experimental Procedure 2 2.1 Test...fiber diameter measurements .............................. 7 Fig. 5 The coordinate system defining the experimental setup with the x- direction along

Experimental Study of the Moment of Inertia of a Cone--Angular Variation and Inertia Ellipsoid

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pintao, Carlos A. F.; de Souza Filho, Moacir P.; Usida, Wesley F.; Xavier, Jose A.

2007-01-01

In this paper, an experimental set-up which differs from the traditional ones is established in order to determine the moment of inertia of a right circular cone. Its angular variation and inertia ellipsoid are determined by means of an experimental study. In addition, a system that allows for the evaluation of the angular acceleration and torque…

Single-Camera Stereoscopy Setup to Visualize 3D Dusty Plasma Flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Romero-Talamas, C. A.; Lemma, T.; Bates, E. M.; Birmingham, W. J.; Rivera, W. F.

2016-10-01

A setup to visualize and track individual particles in multi-layered dusty plasma flows is presented. The setup consists of a single camera with variable frame rate, and a pair of adjustable mirrors that project the same field of view from two different angles to the camera, allowing for three-dimensional tracking of particles. Flows are generated by inclining the plane in which the dust is levitated using a specially designed setup that allows for external motion control without compromising vacuum. Dust illumination is achieved with an optics arrangement that includes a Powell lens that creates a laser fan with adjustable thickness and with approximately constant intensity everywhere. Both the illumination and the stereoscopy setup allow for the camera to be placed at right angles with respect to the levitation plane, in preparation for magnetized dusty plasma experiments in which there will be no direct optical access to the levitation plane. Image data and analysis of unmagnetized dusty plasma flows acquired with this setup are presented.

Can We Falsify the Consciousness-Causes-Collapse Hypothesis in Quantum Mechanics?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Barros, J. Acacio; Oas, Gary

2017-10-01

In this paper we examine some proposals to disprove the hypothesis that the interaction between mind and matter causes the collapse of the wave function, showing that such proposals are fundamentally flawed. We then describe a general experimental setup retaining the key features of the ones examined, and show that even a more general case is inadequate to disprove the mind-matter collapse hypothesis. Finally, we use our setup provided to argue that, under some reasonable assumptions about consciousness, such hypothesis is unfalsifiable.

A microprocessor-based table lookup approach for magnetic bearing linearization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Groom, N. J.; Miller, J. B.

1981-01-01

An approach for producing a linear transfer characteristic between force command and force output of a magnetic bearing actuator without flux biasing is presented. The approach is microprocessor based and uses a table lookup to generate drive signals for the magnetic bearing power driver. An experimental test setup used to demonstrate the feasibility of the approach is described, and test results are presented. The test setup contains bearing elements similar to those used in a laboratory model annular momentum control device.

Simulating interfering fringe displacements by lateral shifts of a camera for educational purposes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rivera-Ortega, Uriel

2018-07-01

In this manuscript we propose a simple method to emulate fringe displacements in a fringe pattern, due to the interference of two plane waves, by using lateral shifts of a CMOS detector under the scheme of a Twyman–Green interferometric setup, avoiding unwanted vibrations and the need for specific and expensive devices in order to accomplish the task. The simplicity of the proposed experimental setup allows it to be easily replicated and used for teaching or demonstrative purposes, essentially for undergraduate students.

Contactless ultrasonic device to measure surface acoustic wave velocities versus temperature.

PubMed

Hubert, C; Nadal, M H; Ravel-Chapuis, G; Oltra, R

2007-02-01

A complete optical experimental setup for generating and detecting surface acoustic waves [Rayleigh waves (RWs)] in metals versus temperature up to the melting point is described. The RWs were excited by a pulsed Nd:YAG laser and detected by a high sensitivity subangstrom heterodyne interferometer. A special furnace was used to heat the sample using infrared radiation with a regulation of the sample temperature less than 0.1 K. First measurements on an aluminum alloy sample are presented to validate the setup.

BrainCycles: Experimental Setup for the Combined Measurement of Cortical and Subcortical Activity in Parkinson's Disease Patients during Cycling.

PubMed

Gratkowski, Maciej; Storzer, Lena; Butz, Markus; Schnitzler, Alfons; Saupe, Dietmar; Dalal, Sarang S

2016-01-01

Recently, it has been demonstrated that bicycling ability remains surprisingly preserved in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients who suffer from freezing of gait. Cycling has been also proposed as a therapeutic means of treating PD symptoms, with some preliminary success. The neural mechanisms behind these phenomena are however not yet understood. One of the reasons is that the investigations of neuronal activity during pedaling have been up to now limited to PET and fMRI studies, which restrict the temporal resolution of analysis, and to scalp EEG focused on cortical activation. However, deeper brain structures like the basal ganglia are also associated with control of voluntary motor movements like cycling and are affected by PD. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrodes implanted for therapy in PD patients provide rare and unique access to directly record basal ganglia activity with a very high temporal resolution. In this paper we present an experimental setup allowing combined investigation of basal ganglia local field potentials (LFPs) and scalp EEG underlying bicycling in PD patients. The main part of the setup is a bike simulator consisting of a classic Dutch-style bicycle frame mounted on a commercially available ergometer. The pedal resistance is controllable in real-time by custom software and the pedal position is continuously tracked by custom Arduino-based electronics using optical and magnetic sensors. A portable bioamplifier records the pedal position signal, the angle of the knee, and the foot pressure together with EEG, EMG, and basal ganglia LFPs. A handlebar-mounted display provides additional information for patients riding the bike simulator, including the current and target pedaling rate. In order to demonstrate the utility of the setup, example data from pilot recordings are shown. The presented experimental setup provides means to directly record basal ganglia activity not only during cycling but also during other movement tasks in patients who have undergone DBS treatment. Thus, it can facilitate studies comparing bicycling and walking, to elucidate why PD patients often retain the ability to bicycle despite severe freezing of gait. Moreover it can help clarifying the mechanism through which cycling may have therapeutic benefits.

BrainCycles: Experimental Setup for the Combined Measurement of Cortical and Subcortical Activity in Parkinson's Disease Patients during Cycling

PubMed Central

Gratkowski, Maciej; Storzer, Lena; Butz, Markus; Schnitzler, Alfons; Saupe, Dietmar; Dalal, Sarang S.

2017-01-01

Recently, it has been demonstrated that bicycling ability remains surprisingly preserved in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients who suffer from freezing of gait. Cycling has been also proposed as a therapeutic means of treating PD symptoms, with some preliminary success. The neural mechanisms behind these phenomena are however not yet understood. One of the reasons is that the investigations of neuronal activity during pedaling have been up to now limited to PET and fMRI studies, which restrict the temporal resolution of analysis, and to scalp EEG focused on cortical activation. However, deeper brain structures like the basal ganglia are also associated with control of voluntary motor movements like cycling and are affected by PD. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrodes implanted for therapy in PD patients provide rare and unique access to directly record basal ganglia activity with a very high temporal resolution. In this paper we present an experimental setup allowing combined investigation of basal ganglia local field potentials (LFPs) and scalp EEG underlying bicycling in PD patients. The main part of the setup is a bike simulator consisting of a classic Dutch-style bicycle frame mounted on a commercially available ergometer. The pedal resistance is controllable in real-time by custom software and the pedal position is continuously tracked by custom Arduino-based electronics using optical and magnetic sensors. A portable bioamplifier records the pedal position signal, the angle of the knee, and the foot pressure together with EEG, EMG, and basal ganglia LFPs. A handlebar-mounted display provides additional information for patients riding the bike simulator, including the current and target pedaling rate. In order to demonstrate the utility of the setup, example data from pilot recordings are shown. The presented experimental setup provides means to directly record basal ganglia activity not only during cycling but also during other movement tasks in patients who have undergone DBS treatment. Thus, it can facilitate studies comparing bicycling and walking, to elucidate why PD patients often retain the ability to bicycle despite severe freezing of gait. Moreover it can help clarifying the mechanism through which cycling may have therapeutic benefits. PMID:28119591

Remote laboratories for optical metrology: from the lab to the cloud

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Osten, W.; Wilke, M.; Pedrini, G.

2012-10-01

The idea of remote and virtual metrology has been reported already in 2000 with a conceptual illustration by use of comparative digital holography, aimed at the comparison of two nominally identical but physically different objects, e.g., master and sample, in industrial inspection processes. However, the concept of remote and virtual metrology can be extended far beyond this. For example, it does not only allow for the transmission of static holograms over the Internet, but also provides an opportunity to communicate with and eventually control the physical set-up of a remote metrology system. Furthermore, the metrology system can be modeled in the environment of a 3D virtual reality using CAD or similar technology, providing a more intuitive interface to the physical setup within the virtual world. An engineer or scientist who would like to access the remote real world system can log on to the virtual system, moving and manipulating the setup through an avatar and take the desired measurements. The real metrology system responds to the interaction between the avatar and the 3D virtual representation, providing a more intuitive interface to the physical setup within the virtual world. The measurement data are stored and interpreted automatically for appropriate display within the virtual world, providing the necessary feedback to the experimenter. Such a system opens up many novel opportunities in industrial inspection such as the remote master-sample-comparison and the virtual assembling of parts that are fabricated at different places. Moreover, a multitude of new techniques can be envisaged. To them belong modern ways for documenting, efficient methods for metadata storage, the possibility for remote reviewing of experimental results, the adding of real experiments to publications by providing remote access to the metadata and to the experimental setup via Internet, the presentation of complex experiments in classrooms and lecture halls, the sharing of expensive and complex infrastructure within international collaborations, the implementation of new ways for the remote test of new devices, for their maintenance and service, and many more. The paper describes the idea of remote laboratories and illustrates the potential of the approach on selected examples with special attention to optical metrology.